Bakkafrost Scotland to appeal refusal of North Gravir salmon farm
Bakkafrost Scotland is set to appeal a decision by Comhairle nan Eilean Siar to refuse planning consent for a new salmon farm off the east coast of the Isle of Lewis.
Earlier this month, councillors voted against a recommendation from planning officers and rejected the proposal for five 200-metre circumference pens at the North Gravir site.
Concerns were raised during the planning process about the potential impact on historically important and economically productive fishing grounds. The Western Isles Fishermen’s Association said the area has consistently produced large volumes of prawns, scallops and brown crab, all landed locally, and warned the development could result in significant loss of commercial fishing grounds.
Bakkafrost Scotland said the development would create five permanent jobs and contribute around £1 million per year to the Scottish economy. Its environmental impact assessment acknowledged the potential for some displacement of fishing effort, but said this would be negligible.
The company said it was disappointed by the planning board’s decision and intends to appeal.