Marine Spatial Planning
Pentland Firth and Orkney Waters
Background & Key Facts
AECOM and Metoc are assisting Marine Scotland with the preparation of a Framework for a Marine Spatial Plan (MSP) together with guidance for wave and tidal development the Pentland Firth and Orkney Waters.
A summary of key facts about this study is provided below:
Ownership of MSP Framework and Locational Guidance |
Marine Scotland |
What prompted the study |
This study is being undertaken in response to the following: 1. Proposed enactment of the Scottish Marine Bill which will provide the legal framework for the preparation of marine spatial plans. 2. Increased commercial interest in developing marine renewable energy in Scottish waters as demonstrated by the Crown Estate’s licensing round. 3. Increased need to understand and resolve potential challenges to the development of marine renewable energy.
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Lifespan of the Framework and Guidance |
The Framework and Regional Locational Guidance will remain relevant until the statutory Marine Spatial Plan is produced. |
Period covered |
For planning purposes, the year 2020 has been chosen. |
Geographical coverage |
The area covered by this study includes the Pentland Firth and Orkney Waters from mean high water mark seaward to 12nm (see Figure 1.1). |
Other organisations involved |
While the study has been commissioned by Marine Scotland, there are a number of other organisations involved. Marine Scotland chairs the Marine Energy Spatial Planning Group (MESPG) which includes: 1. Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE). 2. The Crown Estate (TCE). 3. Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH). 4. Scottish Renewables (SR).
In addition, the Highland Council and Orkney Council are involved. Joint consultation events are proposed to ensure that the studies are integrated with their emerging Local Development Plans.
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Marine Spatial Planning
Marine spatial planning forms a key part of the Scottish Marine Bill which is likely to be enacted in 2010. The MSP Framework for the Pentland Firth and Orkney Waters is a pilot study which will inform future plans for other marine regions around the Scottish coast. The MSP Framework will set out a long-term vision for the use, management and protection of the Pentland Firth and Orkney Waters.
Marine spatial planning was identified in Scotland in 2005 by the Scottish Coastal Forum (SCF) as a mechanism for the sustainable management of marine activities and increased protection of the valuable marine environment and natural resources. Further information on the proposal for marine spatial planning and the Scottish Marine Bill can be found at the following links:
The pilot studies on Marine Spatial Planning in Scotland can be found here:
Scottish Sustainable Marine Environment Initiative
Wave and Tidal Power in the Pentland Firth and Orkney Waters
The Pentland Firth and Orkney Waters have long been recognised as having exceptional resource potential for marine renewable energy. Orkney, in particular, has been at the forefront of efforts to promote and develop the marine renewables sector over the last decade and more, as demonstrated by the establishment of the European Marine Energy Centre (EMEC). The Crown Estate announced in September 2008 an application process for commercial sea bed lease options in the Pentland Firth and Orkney waters.
This current study is, in part, a response to the strong commercial interest in developing wave and tidal energy projects in the area. While the aim is to maximise opportunities for development, it is essential that this does not conflict with those who currently use the sea. The waters are inextricably linked to the social and economic wellbeing of the area, there is exceptional wildlife and heritage interest, and the Pentland Firth is a major navigation route. The potential environmental effects and resource potential were examined as part of the Scottish Marine Renewables Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) published in 2007.
The Regional Locational Guidance will provide a planning tool for developers, regulators and existing users of the marine environment, allowing then to reach balanced decisions on the location of new development, while respecting the environment and the other activities, such as fishing and shipping.
Further information on The Crown Estates activities can be found at: http://www.thecrownestate.co.uk/wave-tidal
The Scottish Marine Renewables SEA can be found at: http://www.seaenergyscotland.co.uk/
Information about EMEC can be found at: http://www.emec.org.uk/
Highlands and Islands Enterprise is also actively involved and information can be found here: http://www.hie.co.uk/renewable-energy.html