New proposals to streamline and improve efficiency of the planning process in Scotland were unveiled on 09 March 2010 in a bid to enhance the GBP367 million aquaculture industry in Scotland. The Planning Reform for Aquaculture document published by Cabinet Secretary for Finance John Swinney and Environment Minister Roseanna Cunningham, will
New proposals to streamline and improve efficiency of the planning process in Scotland were unveiled on 09 March 2010 in a bid to enhance the GBP367 million aquaculture industry in Scotland. The Planning Reform for Aquaculture document published by Cabinet Secretary for Finance John Swinney and Environment Minister Roseanna Cunningham, will:
- Make clear what is required by way of information to support a planning application;
- Streamline procedures to remove any unnecessary barriers;
- Improve decision making to attract further investment in aquaculture in Scotland;
- Make sure responses from public agencies are proportionate and focused.
Ahead of a debate on aquaculture in the Scottish Parliament, Ms Cunningham said: "The Scottish Government wants to see Scotland\'s aquaculture industry go from strength to strength, these changes will allow this to happen in a sustainable way. According to the UN Food and Agriculture Organisation, aquaculture is the only way to meet the surging global demand for seafood. Scotland is well placed to embrace this and benefit from further investment in the sector; we are recognised globally as a land of food and drink with the iconic Scottish Salmon playing an important role in this reputation. Scotland\'s aquaculture is worth more than GBP367 million to the Scottish economy and is a lifeline to many of Scotland\'s fragile rural communities. But we are not complacent and want to build on this success."
Farmed salmon supports 1,212 direct jobs in production and a significant number in processing; according to 2008 records, this was 3,733 full-time, part time and seasonal workers.
