Orkney Islands Regional Marine Plan
This plan covers the management of the Scottish Marine Region for the Orkney Islands. It guides and supports decision making for development and use of the sea, and represents the second tier of marine planning, following on from the National plan.
Foreword
The Orkney Islands Regional Marine Plan is a significant step forward for the protection of our marine waters whilst supporting sustainable economic development in the Orkney Islands marine region. It provides a clear framework for decisions on how we use our marine space and sets out planning policies that will help to drive progress and innovation. The plan will support sustainable management of our marine environment and will help decision makers to guide sustainable development to the right places, whilst safeguarding our marine environment and quality of life for Orkney communities.
This Plan is a major milestone in supporting the delivery of the Blue Economy Vision for Scotland, ensuring action is taken to combat the twin crises of climate change and biodiversity loss, whilst supporting fair, prosperous, nature-positive marine sectors and communities. Climate change in particular is one of the most pressing issues facing the nation and can be felt amongst the fragile island communities around Orkney.
The preparation of the Plan has been undertaken utilising a collaborative approach, enabling a wide range of stakeholders, especially local communities, to work together across the Orkney archipelago to consider their marine priorities. This has enabled the people of Orkney to engage in the process of marine planning from the earliest stage. We would like to take the opportunity to acknowledge the commitment and input of local people. Their valuable range of expertise and knowledge has been a vital asset during the process of preparing this Plan.
All of Scotland’s society, including Orkney communities, the public sector, businesses and organisations will have a role to play in achieving our vision. With a shared ambition, we look forward to a prosperous future for the local community, and all of Scotland’s citizens, visitors and future generations, who can all benefit from Orkney’s very special marine environment and thriving economy.
Gillian Martin MSP,
Cabinet Secretary for Climate Action and Energy
Councillor Kristopher Leask,
Chair of Enterprise and Infrastructure Committee, Orkney Islands Council
Chair of Orkney Marine Planning Advisory Group