Locational Guidelines for the Authorisation of Marine Fish Farms in Scottish Waters

Introduction

1. In November 1997, Lord Sewel, the then Minister for Agriculture, Environment and Fisheries at The Scottish Office, announcing the Government’s response to the Scottish Salmon Strategy Task Force Report, indicated that authorisation to allow or expand marine fish farms, currently exercised by the Crown Estate (CEC), should be transferred to Scottish local authorities.

2. Transfer of responsibility to local authorities will require primary legislation by the Scottish Parliament. Pending new legislation the Government introduced a non-statutory interim scheme with effect from 1 December 1998 which enhances the role of local authorities in the decision-making process. The non-statutory interim procedures are set out in the associated Procedure Note. This Policy Guidance Note is accompanied by an Advice Note "Marine Fish Farming and the Environment" which gives best practice advice and information on other detailed matters include contact details for the main statutory bodies.

3. The purpose of this Policy Guidance Note is

• to provide guidance on the factors to be taken into account when considering proposals for new marine fish farms or modifications to existing operations; and
• to establish the national context for the preparation by planning authorities of non-statutory marine fish farming framework plans for guiding the location of future marine fish farms;

having regard to the particular needs and safeguards for a successful industry.