Moray MSP to meet firm behind controversial Moray Flow-Park project
An MSP is set to meet the firm behind a controversial offshore development.
Moray MSP Richard Lochhead will meet with Offshore Solutions Group (OSG) next week to discuss their plans for a Flow-Park in the Moray Firth.
In April, OSG announced that a two-year exclusivity agreement had been signed with Crown Estate Scotland for areas of seabed in the Moray Firth which would allow the group to conduct initial surveys of their proposed sites providing temporary safe anchorage for floating offshore wind assets.
The Moray Flow-Park could see around 36 square kilometres of seabed used for the temporary storage of wind turbine foundations and related structures. The facility is expected to come within three kilometres of Findhorn, Burghead and Nairn, and just one kilometre from the RSPB reserve at Culbin Sands.
Since the announcement, Mr Lochhead has been contacted by constituents concerned about the plans and the MSP is meeting with the CEO of OSG, Will Rowley, to convey these concerns and seek assurances from the company on the level of engagement and consultation that will be carried out.
Mr Lochhead said: “The Moray Firth holds deep significance for local communities, not just from its incredible beauty and natural environment, but also from the fact many livelihoods continue to depend on the Moray Firth through industries such as fishing and tourism.
“I am aware that there are many people anxious about these proposals, including the fishing industry, so I’m keen to bring those understandable concerns directly to Offshore Solutions Group’s CEO and ensure stakeholders and local residents will be able to engage in consultation and discussions about a potential flow-park.
“OSG have advised that these plans are at an early stage, with a wide range of studies and investigations to be carried out to comply with statutory and environmental legislative requirements, but I want to make sure that those concerns and questions being expressed by a wide range of voices are listened to and taken on board by Offshore Solutions Group from the outset.
“As well as seeking a better understanding of the opportunities and impact of the project, I will be pressing the CEO to ensure that there is meaningful engagement with local communities and the fishing and maritime sectors.
“If anyone has any concerns or questions about Moray Flow-Park that they would like put to the CEO, please get in touch with my office.”
A public meeting on the Flow Park has been set for Tuesday, November 11 in Forres Town Hall at 6pm.