Bakkafrost Scotland lodges appeal over planning refusal

In its decision notice, the Comhairle stated the application was refused on the basis that the applicant had "failed to demonstrate that the proposed development would not result in an unacceptable exclusion of commercial fishing activity from a historically important and economically productive fishing ground”.

It found the proposal contrary to Policy ED4 and Supplementary Guidance of the Outer Hebrides Local Development Plan and Policy 32 of NPF4.

The PAB had overturned planning officer recommendations to approve the development.

Planning consultee Western Isles Fishermen’s Association (WIFA) had warned in its objection that the development would impose “the biggest ever loss to the Scottish fishing industry of prolific commercial fishing grounds”, and that the site had “has consistently provided large volumes of prawns, scallops, and brown crab ... creating long-term sustainable employment opportunities both at sea and ashore”.

In its Environmental Impact Assessment, Bakkafrost Scotland had argued that the site represented only 0.06 percent of the affected sea area and that displacement of fishing activity would be “negligible”. The company said the development would provide five permanent jobs with an estimated direct economic benefit of £606,000 annually to the local economy.

At the time of the refusal, a Bakkafrost Scotland spokesperson had said: “We are disappointed by the Planning Board’s decision and intend to appeal.

“Bakkafrost has a long and proud history of operating in the Western Isles. We have engaged extensively with stakeholders and carefully considered all feedback. This development would support the long-term sustainability of our operations in the area.”

An appeal against the refusal has now been lodged with Scottish Ministers under section 47 of the Town and Country Planning (Scotland) Act 1997.