Charity airs environmental concerns over Broadford camp

IOSF’s children’s education programme, Team Otter Broadford, recently produced a video featuring camera trap footage of animals residing in the area. These included the protected Eurasian otter, as well as roe and red deer, pine marten, grey heron, and woodcock.

It noted that winter footage did not include hibernating or migratory  species, or birds such as barn owls, white-tailed eagles, and golden eagles.

IOSF’s objections are not the only concern about the project that has been made recently. The camp, which would complement another 450-bed Balfour Beatty development at Breakish, was also criticised by local councillor Ruraidh Stewart. As well as environmental consequences, he said a town of 1100 people would struggle to manage 800 transient workers and that applying for workers camps before the Skye Reinforcement Project had been approved was ‘an appalling dereliction of governance’.

In response to environmental concerns, a Sodexo spokesperson said the company had been transparent and collaborative during the planning process, with two public consultations.

“All drainage and surface water management systems will be designed in accordance with the standards and requirements outlined by the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) and other relevant authorities to mitigate environmental risks,” the spokesperson said. 

“We understand the importance of preserving the unique character of Broadford while meeting essential development needs, and we are happy to work with the landowner and SSEN Transmission to explore the potential to restore saplings felled during construction. 

“Our priority remains working with the community, local authorities, and environmental organisations to ensure the project to upgrade the energy grid for the local community delivers long term benefits while minimising its impact on the environment and local resources.”