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Proposed Approach

There have been a number of pilot studies implemented through the Scottish Sustainable Marine Environment Initiative (SSMEI) to examine different approaches to the management of the coastal and marine environment and options for development of a MSP.  However, there is currently no formal guidance on how an MSP should be prepared, what it should contain and how it should be used. It has therefore been necessary to set out our Proposed Approach and seek comments on this approach.

The Proposed Approach (pdf 6MB)

This report is the first stage in the preparation of the Marine Spatial Plan. The main aims of this document are to:

1. Seek views on scope and content of a Framework for the Pentland Firth and Orkney Waters MSP.

2. Seek views on scope and content of Regional Locational Guidance for wave and tidal stream energy development.

3. Identify the key issues relating to the current and future use of the marine environment within the Pentland Firth and Orkney Waters.

4. Provide a baseline summary of the study area covering all sectors.

5. Facilitate open and transparent discussion, and commitment, amongst key stakeholders, regulators, developers and the local community on the following:

a. Opportunities and solutions for resolving overlapping/competing interests.

b. Identification of potential locations/areas for wave and tidal stream energy projects and locations of existing and potential supporting infrastructure.

c. Development of guidance notes and criteria for inclusion in Regional Locational Guidance to assist with the consenting and deployment of marine development projects. Development of practical and enforceable mitigation measures for inclusion in the Regional Locational Guidance. Identification on future research/survey and monitoring requirements and preparation of methods statements for their development and implementation.

All comments on the Proposed Approach can be sent to: