Regional marine plan finally adopted by government
The Shetland Islands Regional Marine Plan is the first of its kind in Scotland
SHETLAND’s long-awaited regional marine plan – the first of its type in Scotland – has been published.
The plan aims to support management of the marine environment in Shetland to ensure clean, healthy, safe, productive and diverse seas that meet the long-term needs of nature and the local people.
The plan – which sits beneath Scotland’s national marine plan – provides a framework for decisions on activities from fish farming to renewable energy up to 12 nautical miles from the coast.
It has been developed by the Shetland Islands Marine Planning Partnership. This contains UHI Shetland and the council, who have been guided by an advisory group.
Its adoption has been a long time coming; the first iteration was approved by councillors in 2021, but it has taken four years for it to be formally put in place by government.
Councillors have vented their frustration in the chamber on the issue before, with one saying in February it was “utterly ridiculous” that the plan had not been adopted yet.
The 173-page plan includes guidance on:
- protecting marine wildlife and ecosystems such as maerl and horse mussel beds, as well as internationally important seabird colonies and seal populations
- climate change assessments for new developments
- ensuring aquaculture and renewable energy projects deliver community benefits
- requiring developers and marine users to consider the impacts on local communities, protected species and habitats before projects proceed.
UHI Shetland said the publication of the plan reflects “two decades of Shetland’s leadership in marine spatial planning”.
The first Shetland marine spatial plan was created in 2008, and there have been four editions since, with the last one published in 2015.
With the regional plan now adopted, the Shetland Marine Planning Partnership will become a statutory consultee.
Associate professor of marine management and governance at UHI Shetland Dr. Rachel Shucksmith said: “The Shetland Islands Regional Marine Plan ensures Shetland’s unique character and the importance of the marine environment to the islands’ economy, culture, and way of life is recognised in the marine planning process.
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“It is built on a strong base of local evidence, gathered through collaboration with the Shetland community, industry partners, and local organisations.
“The plan will support the sustainable management of Shetland’s seas, enabling local data, knowledge, and values to be considered within decision-making.”
She also acknowledged the dedication of those who have worked towards its adoption past and present at UHI Shetland, the council and the advisory group.
Meanwhile cabinet secretary for climate action and energy Gillian Martin pointed to Shetland’s rich maritime heritage.
“It’s seas are vital to the local economy, culture and way of life,” the MSP said.
“This plan demonstrates how local knowledge and national priorities can work together to protect the marine environment whilst, crucially, supporting our island communities to thrive.
“Shetland’s approach to marine planning sets a strong example for sustainable development across Scotland.”
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