Marine consultation launched

The future of the Pentland Firth and Orkney Waters (PFOW) will be guided by the outcome of a joint consultation launched by Marine Scotland, Orkney Islands Council, The Highland Council and Heriot-Watt University. 
 
Two documents have been produced to support the development of a pilot Marine Spatial Plan that aims to balance the needs of all existing and future users of the PFOW. The pilot plan will also aim to protect the natural environment on which these users depend. This consultation will guide future decisions made by public authorities on marine development and management.
 
A series of events have been planned that will explain what the marine development may mean for coastal communities such as Orkney, Caithness and Sutherland.

The following events will be held in the Pentland Hotel, Thurso: 

Drop-in sessions:  5.30 pm – 8.30 pm, Monday 1 July; one-to-one meetings –10 am – 4 pm, Tuesday 2 July: workshop: 10 am – 4 pm, Wednesday 4 July.
 
Councillor Deirdre Mackay, Leader of Highland Council Caithness and Sutherland area committee, said: “These events are a brilliant opportunity for all local people to get involved in helping to shape a marine plan that supports economic development in Caithness and Sutherland, making best use of our wealth of skills and resources.”
 
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