Loch Long Salmon criticises Scottish government over planning delays.
Loch Long Salmon has criticised the Scottish Government for its continued delay in ruling on a proposed £40 million closed-pen salmon farm in Loch Long, Argyll & Bute, saying the inaction risks investment and innovation in Scotland’s aquaculture sector.
The company’s Beinn Reithe proposal, which would be Scotland’s first closed-pen salmon farm, has been under review for more than three and a half years. The Scottish Government Planning and Environmental Appeals Division (DPEA) submitted its findings to ministers in February 2024, but no decision has been made.
“The lack of progress is disheartening,” said Mark Shotter, project manager at Loch Long Salmon. “Delays to projects like ours risk undermining Scotland’s ability to attract international trade and investment and discourage further innovation. The inaction demonstrated by the Scottish Government is at complete odds with the urgency with which we must rebuild our economy and tackle the climate and nature crisis. The Scottish Government must act decisively—inaction is not an option.”
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The closed-pen technology, already used in Canada, Norway, and the Faroe Islands, was approved for implementation in Scotland by SEPA in 2021. It is designed to improve fish welfare while reducing environmental impact and is seen as a key step in modernising Scotland’s aquaculture industry.
The project would also bring economic benefits to the local community, including the creation of 12 full-time jobs and the establishment of a £100,000 annual community benefit fund for at least 20 years.
“As a small community, this level of investment will have a transformative impact and will put us firmly on the map,” said Ronnie Ross, Chair of the Arrochar, Tarbet, and Ardlui Community Council. “This project has strong community support because of the jobs, investment, and community fund it promises to deliver.”
The delay has also raised concerns among business leaders. Jane MacDonald, CEO of Argyll & Bute Chamber of Commerce, warned that the lack of a decision could deter future investment. “Argyll and Bute’s reputation as a destination for investment relies on clear and timely decision-making. While sustainable farming is important to the region, this delay sends a concerning message to investors. We cannot afford to let bureaucracy stand in the way of innovative, sustainable growth in our community.”
A Scottish Government spokesperson said ministers are giving the appeal “full and proper consideration” and that a decision will be made “as soon as possible.”
