Highland Council backs extension of Bakkafrost hatchery.
Bakkafrost Scotland has received planning consent from Highland Council to extend its Applecross hatchery site in Wester Ross.
The application, submitted in June 2025 and approved in January 2026, relates to an extension of an existing hatchery building at the former Russelburn Hatchery, now operating as Applecross Hatchery.
According to planning documents, the site has been in operation for more than 35 years for the rearing of salmon eggs and smolt. Bakkafrost said the proposed AP7 hatchery building, which will be built as an extension to the existing AP6 building, is intended to help sustain operations at the site and support local employment.
The company stated that the development is an operational requirement and will not have a material impact on the surrounding landscape or neighbouring properties.
Highland Council concluded that the proposal is in keeping with the site’s designated use and approved the application under reference 25/02104/FUL.