New Bakkafrost fish farm approved off Gigha

In a letter to the council’s planning department posted to X, MSP Burgess said: "Your planning department and councillors will be aware of the Parliamentary committee report which was published in 2018, Salmon Farming Scotland, which recommended ’No expansion to be permitted at sites that report high or significantly increased levels of mortality until regulators are satisfied that they have been addressed.

"Approving the application would allow the same company to expand operations close to its existing sites where it has recently struggled with high mortality rates, including the worst mortality event in Scottish History in 2021."

The plan was recommended on the grounds that it was consistent with the local development plan, and, with mitigation measures in place in conjunction with Bakkafrost’s other nearby farms, would not significantly impact European nature conservation efforts. 

Those from Gigha in support of the plans said that the creation of new jobs would give opportunities to young people and enable them to stay on the island, stopping its depopulation and growing the strength of the local economy. 

A spokesperson for Bakkafrost Scotland said: “Gigha is a key part of our southern operations, and we are pleased with the outcome of the hearing.

“Bakkafrost is determined to be a good neighbour, and we are encouraged many of the local community came out to express their support for our plans.

“Our aim is to be Scotland’s leading and most sustainable salmon producer, and Gigha is part of that journey."

A spokesperson for Argyll and Bute council said: “Aquaculture is an important industry in Argyll and Bute and one that provides jobs to more remote locations, including island communities, and helps to support and grow our population.

"Due to the level of community interest, we held a discretionary pre determination hearing to consider all comments received throughout the application process. After due consideration, Councillors approved the application in line with council planning policies.”