Fusion nets 7 pen deal

These new pen systems – for sites on Unst and Yell – are supplied with safety decking and other ancillary equipment.

This latest contract follows-on from a previous order in the summer of 2015 for 12 new Triton 450 pens and the upgrade of four Oceanflex pens, bringing Cooke’s total investment in new equipment to almost £1m in the last eight months.

This significant investment is part of Cooke Aquaculture Scotland’s ongoing strategy to ensure it is equipped with the most modern containment systems. The company has a particularly strong presence in Unst and Yell where it employs around 65 people and is a significant contributor to the local economy.

Manufactured from tough polyethylene (PE), the Triton system has been developed specially by Fusion Marine to meet the harsh conditions experienced in exposed, open sea fish farming locations. The triple-ring Oceanflex pen system is widely used by Scottish salmon farmers and utilises the most advanced, quality assured construction techniques.

Colin Blair, managing director of Cooke Aquaculture Scotland, said: “These new orders are all about standardising our fish farming systems to the highest possible level and where containment is our number one priority.

“We are particularly pleased that we have been able to place these orders with a Scottish manufacturing company, which underlines the importance of salmon farming to our country’s economy and in supporting jobs in fragile rural communities.”

Fusion’s Iain Forbes said: “Our incredibly strong large diameter pens provide the perfect solution for rearing stock in challenging high energy environments. We have forged an excellent relationship with Cooke Aquaculture Scotland, which has benefited businesses in our home area in Argyll, as well as the Northern Isles.”