Regulation of fish and shellfish farm deposits: consultation

Summary

The Scottish Government is committed to clarifying the consenting process for aquaculture, to ensure a consistent approach to the regulation and consenting of aquaculture development and activity across the 0-12 nautical mile zone.

At present there is an inconsistent administrative approach to the regulation of fish farm environmental discharges between 0-12 nautical miles, with SEPA the responsible authority between 0-3 nautical miles and MD-LOT, on behalf of Scottish Ministers, the responsible authority between 3-12 nautical miles.

Having SEPA as the responsible authority for the regulation of fish farm environmental discharges between 3-12 nautical miles, will result in a consistent approach to the regulation of this activity between 0-12 nautical miles. Such regulation will be in a manner that is already well understood by business, regulators and other stakeholders from experience of the consenting processes between 0-3 nautical miles

This will also align the regulation of fish farm environmental discharges with the other aquaculture consenting processes (planning, aquaculture production businesses authorisation and marine licensing) by having one relevant authority responsible for each consent between 0-12 nautical miles.

The proposed amendments to the Exempted Activities Order will also support a reduction in regulatory duplication and streamlining of the wider aquaculture consenting process.

Creating a consistent regulatory framework for aquaculture across the 0-12 nautical mile zone will encourage businesses to explore opportunities to site farms in regions which have the potential to support increased production, reduce environmental interactions and to support fish health and welfare. Development beyond 3 nautical miles has the potential to see innovation delivered in Scotland, alongside realisation of the wider employment and supply chain benefits which will come as a result.

Question 4:

Do you have any other points you wish to raise regarding the proposals set out in this consultation paper? If so please provide details below.