PLANS to create a new habitat to encourage birds to breed on the shore of Loch Ryan have taken their first steps to get planning approval.
Equinor, a leading developer of offshore wind power is planning for an environmental and biodiversity improvement scheme near Kirkcolm.
The project is aimed at encouraging the return of a nesting population of Sandwich terns, a medium sized sea-fish feeding species, which until about 15 years ago used to nest on Loch Ryan at Scar Point.
Initial plans for the habitat include the creation of a natural water-fed pond- at least one hectare in size – with a series of mini-islands to provide a safe and secure habitat for nesting that should prove attractive to the birds.
Development and Consents Manager at Equinor, Mark Jones, is leading the project and believe that the return of the birds will only have a positive impact on the surrounding communities.
He said: “We are delighted to take this step forward in delivering this potential project at Loch Ryan.
“The Sandwich tern was, until relatively recently, nesting on the shore of the Loch at Scar Point. Encouraging them to return would be a significant boost to local biodiversity and the natural environment
“These plans will be subject to broad local consultation, among the general public across Stranraer and the Rhins, as well as the many local groups representing those with an interest in the Loch Ryan area, its extensive network of local paths and local birdwatching and biodiversity groups.
“We are very much looking forward to working with the local community during the detailed design of these proposals.”
Equinor has lodged a pre-application submission to the local authority while it continues to work with it and other key stakeholders to progress the initiative, with the final plans being subject to a full planning application and approval by Dumfries and Galloway Council.
Discussions are also in progress with Corsewall Estates, which owns the potential new habitat site.
