Second Orkney Islands Marine Plan sets binding framework for aquaculture, renewables and environmental management to 12 nautical miles
The second Orkney Islands Regional Marine Plan has been published, setting out how activities in waters up to 12 nautical miles from the coast will be managed.
The Orkney Islands Regional Marine Plan provides a statutory framework for decision-making on marine developments, including fish farming and renewable energy projects. It is intended to balance economic activity with environmental protection and long-term sustainability.
The plan has been prepared by Orkney Islands Council on behalf of Scottish Ministers, with input from local communities and stakeholders through the Orkney Marine Planning Advisory Group.
Climate, Nature And Economic Priorities
According to the Council, the plan is designed to safeguard Orkney’s marine environment for future generations while supporting economic development tied to the sea.
It includes guidance on mitigating climate change impacts, conserving marine wildlife and ecosystems, protecting the water environment, reducing marine litter and waste, and ensuring aquaculture and renewable energy developments deliver tangible community benefits.
Climate Action Secretary Gillian Martin said the plan represents “another significant step forward for the protection of our marine waters whilst supporting sustainable economic development in the Orkney Islands marine region”.
She described it as “a major milestone towards 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”, adding that it shows how local knowledge can shape national priorities and recognise the importance of the marine environment to Orkney’s economy and culture.
Local Authority Emphasises Implementation
Councillor Kristopher Leask of Orkney Islands Council said the adoption of the plan “marks a major milestone in the sustainable management of Orkney’s marine environment and economy”.
He said the plan will help decision-makers address local priorities and deliver objectives for Orkney’s seas. “I’d like to thank everyone who has contributed to preparing the plan, especially our local communities and those who work on the sea,” he said, adding that local knowledge had informed the final document.
Leask stated that a “thriving marine economy will help us secure a prosperous future for Orkney whilst taking care of our marine environment” and said the Council is now focused on implementation.
The publication of the second Regional Marine Plan formally establishes the framework under which marine activities around Orkney will be assessed and managed in the coming years, with the stated aim of aligning environmental protection with economic resilience.
