Skip to content

North Gravir

Introduction

The Isle of Lewis is a key area for our operations and we have operated here for a number of years employing a significant number of residents. Bakkafrost Scotland aims to become the leading sustainable producer of salmon in Scotland.

We are looking to install a new farm off the east coast of the Isle of Lewis, comprising pens, moorings and a feed barge.

Comhairle nan Eilean Siar has provided a Scoping Opinion (22/00290) on this proposal, advising that an Environmental Impact Assessment is required to be undertaken. During the process of seeking a SEPA Controlled Activities Regulations (CAR) licence and planning permission for this proposals, we have held public consultation events in the local area to allow the community to learn more about our proposal and ask questions.

We would like to hear your views and questions on the proposals and the information that has been presented at the public consultation events is available here. If you would like to comment or request further information, please contact us on communities@bakkafrost.com.

Please note that feedback received via the email address above will only be directed to Bakkafrost Scotland. An opportunity to submit formal representations on this proposal will be available once a formal planning application has been submitted to the Comhairle nan Eilean Siar.

BAKKAFROST 115

Site Overview

The proposal is to install a new fish farm, on the Eastern shore of the Isle of Lewis, details of the proposal are;

  • One group of pens (1x5) of 200-metre circumference, arranged in one row, with a linked feed barge;
  • The pens and feed barge will be painted dark grey or black in colour to blend in with the surrounding marine environment;
  • Innovative design will ensure robust fish health and welfare, and environmental sustainability; and
  • Environmental impacts will be assessed, mitigated and monitored.
BAKKAFROST 002

Application

Comhairle nan Eilean Siar has advised that an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) is required for this proposal. The EIA will focus on the following areas;

  • Nature conservation impact assessments; Benthic habitats and species, wild salmonid populations, Inner Hebrides and the Minches SAC
  • Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment
  • Water environment
  • Noise
  • Other marine users and economic considerations
Bakkafrost

Timeline

April 2022: Pre-application discussions with local stakeholders;

June 2022: Screening and scoping request submitted to Comhairle nan Eilean Siar;

December 2022: Scoping Opinion received from Comhairle nan Eilean Siar;

August 2022: North Gravir SEPA public engagement event;

June 2023: North Gravir planning public engagement event and launch of project webspace;

October 2023 (proposed): Submission of planning application to Comhairle nan Eilean Siar

April 2024 (proposed): Determination of planning application by Comhairle nan Eilean Siar

BAKKAFROST NATIVE HEB 1999

Contact Us

If you would like to share any thoughts or questions about the project, please contact us at communities@bakkafrost.com