The Revised Fish Farming Planning Protocol demonstrates what constitutes best practice for the sector.

SSPO updates guide for fish farmers

The Scottish Salmon Producers’ Organisation has updated its guide for fish farm developers on engagement with the planning process and the procedures to follow when seeking to operate in Scotland.

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A statement from the SSPO said: “The objective of the Revised Fish Farming Planning Protocol is to help all member companies; engage with the planning system; become involved in the planning process; carry out preapplication discussion and consultation; and prepare and submit planning applications, in a structured, disciplined, consistent and comprehensive way in accordance with all legal requirements and recognised best practice.

“SSPO members are committed to a Voluntary Planning Protocol, principally with regard to Best Practice for Pre-Application Engagement with stakeholders and the wider community.

“The Revised Fish Farming Planning Protocol was developed following extensive consultation with industry developers, local authority planning heads and statutory consultees in the fish farming development process and fulfils a pledge made as part of the recommendations of the Independent Review of Aquaculture Consenting (IRSAC) during 2016.

“The document demonstrates what constitutes best practice for the sector, linking closely to the industry Community Engagement Charter.”

The revised Revised Fish Farming Planning Protocol can be accessed here.