Scottish salmon firm announces £3.7m development
Loch Duart Ltd, based in north-west Sutherland, is expanding to keep pace with demand for its high quality fish. Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE) has approved £742,000 support towards the company's ambitious proposals, which also include the acquisition and infrastructure for three sea loch sites in the Uists.
The firm currently has nine farm sites in Eddrachillies Bay near Scourie. All production is RSPCA Freedom Food approved and the firm has made substantial investment in the hatchery development at nearby Duartmore.
By taking over extra sea loch sites in the Uists, LDL plans to increase production by 50 per cent and create 19 new jobs over the next three years. The company currently produces 3600 tonnes per annum of fresh whole gutted salmon, distributed to both UK and overseas markets.
Archie Macdonald, HIE area manager based in the Outer Hebrides, said: "The investment in both the hatchery and the new farm sites will allow the company to provide accountability for its product through every stage of development - a sought-after requirement at the top end of the market. This is an excellent company with high environmental standards and we are delighted to assist it in its drive to become even more successful."
