Fairlie
Recirculating Aquaculture System (RAS).
Fairlie
In January 2023, we lodged a Proposal of Application Notice (PAN) for a ‘Recirculating Aquaculture System’ (RAS) facility at Hunterston Port and Resource Centre (PARC). Following this, and taking into account the feedback from our stakeholder engagement meetings and events, we have submitted the final stages of our planning proposals, which were carried out in two stages.
The first stage involved submitting a local groundwork application. This application seeks consent only for initial site preparation works (earthworks) related to the development site within the Hunterston Construction Yard. As for the main planning application for the RAS facility, it was submitted in July 2024.
Our intention
The new RAS facility is expected to create around 35 specialist jobs and support the wider supply chain.
The planning application notice was submitted to North Ayrshire Council on January 19, 2023. Bakkafrost Scotland is also currently developing its first RAS facility at Applecross in the Highlands.
This investment will create local specialist jobs and support the wider local economy.
What is RAS?
RAS technology is a self-contained, indoor land-based aquaculture system which allows salmon to be reared for longer in freshwater tanks before being moved to marine sites. Greater control of the freshwater rearing environment means that farmers can produce larger juvenile salmon (called smolt) which reduces the time at sea and biological risk of rearing in the marine environment.
It has been designed to look aesthetically pleasing externally and internally there will be an education centre and viewing gallery.
Why Hunterston
Hunterston PARC’s vision is to create a nationally significant Energy and Marine campus, bringing together leading industry operators, world-class universities and the latest innovators.
Hunterston’s port would allow access for our boats and with the great transport links.
Timeline
January 2023: Lodged a proposal of application notice (PAN) for a ‘recirculating aquaculture system’ (RAS) facility at Hunterston Port and Resource Centre (PARC)
March 2023: Start public exhibitions and engagement
Gather feedback and action
July 2024: Planning submitted
Contact us
If you would like to share any thoughts or questions about the project, please contact us at communities@bakkafrost.com