Shetland's Marine Industries
Shetland has a diverse range of marine sectors, from the long-standing industries such as fishing to the emerging marine renewable energy sector.
Shetland's strategic location in the North Sea and Atlantic Ocean make it an ideal hub for various marine activities, including oil and gas exploration and renewable energy developments. Shetland's fishing and aquaculture sectors are highly productive benefiting from Shetland's high levels of water quality. These sectors contribute significantly to Shetland and Scotland's blue economy and the global food chain.
These primary industries are supported by essential marine services such as transport, engineering, boat building and fish and shellfish processing.
The Shetland Islands Regional Marine Plan (SIRMP) promotes sustainable development and use of marine resources whilst also balancing the protection and enhancement of the marine area and the health, benefit and prosperity of local communities.
To support spatial management and sustainable development the Marine Spatial Planning Team have developed guidance and supporting information. Use the drop down sections below to find out more.
Biosecurity Plan for the Shetland Islands
Biosecurity Plan for the Shetland Islands
To support the Shetland Island's Regional Marine Plan the Marine Spatial Planning Team monitor the occurrence of introduced marine species (also known as non-native species) in Shetland. This supports the Biosecurity Plan for the Shetland Islands which was guided by the Shetland Islands Regional Marine Plan Advisory Group.
This Biosecurity Plan provides useful and practical information on best practice procedures for all marine users that will contribute to the effective management of marine NNS.
Find out more-
Sullom Voe Master Plan
Sullom Voe Master Plan
Background
Vessel throughput at Sullom Voe Terminal is changing, and the Shetland Islands Council are considering appropriate future use of Sullom Voe Harbour, an area which includes Sullom Voe and Yell Sound. The Shetland Islands Council has engaged the Marine Spatial Planning Team at Shetland UHI to help create a Master Plan for the Sullom Voe Harbour area.
To view the extent of the Sullom Voe Harbour Area, download the Sullom Voe Harbour Overview Map pdf.
In line with Shetland Council policy to support community consultation and involvement in decision making, the Master Plan will be created based on input from local people and stakeholders such as the oil and gas, aquaculture and fishing sectors.
What is a Master Plan?
A master plan, in this context, is an overarching plan which guides development within a defined area. The Shetland Islands Council will use it as statutory guidance to direct planning and leasing decisions in the area. The Master Plan will provide useful guidance for developers and will reflect the desires of the local community.
How does this fit with other things happening in the area?
The Shetland Islands Council have applied for the Sullom Voe Harbour area to be a part of the Crown Estate Scotland Pilot Scheme.
Sullom Voe Master Plan Documents
The Sullom Voe Master Plan was subject to public consultation in 2021. The Master Plan documents can be viewed here:
Other Relevant Documents
- Shetland Islands Regional Marine Plan
- Shetland Local Development Plan and Supplementary Guidance- Aquaculture
- Scotland's Marine Atlas
- Shetland Islands Marine Region State of the Environment Assessment
- Shetland Coastal Character Assessment
- Marine Renewables in Shetland