An application has been made to the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) by Scottish Sea Farms Ltd for authorisation to carry on a controlled activity at, near or in connection with Westerbister MCFF, Scapa Flow, Orkney.

SEPA considers that the above controlled activity may have an impact on the water environment and on the interests of other users of the water environment.

A copy of the application and any accompanying information may be inspected free of charge, at the SEPA registry below, between 9.30 a.m. and 4.30 p.m. Monday to Friday (except local and national holidays). Alternatively, the application may be viewed on SEPA’s website at:

http://www.sepa.org.uk/regulations/consultations/advertised-applications-under-car/

Any person affected or likely to be affected by, or having an interest in, the application may make representations to SEPA in writing within 28 days beginning with the date of this advertisement, at the following address, quoting reference number CAR/L/1143253:

Registry Department, SEPA, Dingwall Office, Graesser House, Fodderty Way, Dingwall Business Park, Dingwall, IV15 9XB.

Written representations received within 28 days of this advertisement will be taken into consideration in determining whether or not to grant the application.

Before determining the application, SEPA will:

• assess the risk to the water environment posed by the carrying on of the activity or activities;

• assess the indirect effects of that impact on any other aspects of the environment likely to be significantly affected;

• consider any likely adverse social and economic effects of that impact and of any indirect environmental effects that have been identified;

• consider the likely environmental, social and economic benefits of the activity;

• assess the impact of the controlled activity or activities on the interests of other users of the water environment;

• assess what steps may be taken to ensure efficient and sustainable water use; and

• apply and have regard to relevant legislation.

SEPA will then either grant or refuse to grant the application.