Planning Scotland's Seas: Sectoral Marine Plans for Offshore Wind, Wave and Tidal Energy in Scottish Waters. Consultation Analysis Report.

5 Plan Implementation and Review

5.1 This section of the report focuses on a single question, question 12, which asked respondent's views on plan implementation and review.

In summary:

• There were varied comments on the optimum frequency of reviewing the Plans once implemented although more respondents suggested a two yearly review cycle than any other pre-determined frequency.
• Some respondents identified a need for flexibility and emphasised the importance of reviewing the Plans as new research or information became available.
• The main theme relating to the composition of the Plans Review Steering Group was that a mix of stakeholders should be included.

Question 12: The Plans, once implemented, will be reviewed to take account of actual development and increasing knowledge of development factors. How often do you believe should this be done and why? Who do you believe should be involved in the Plans Review Steering Group, to oversee the review process?

5.2 Thirty-nine respondents, three individuals and 36 organisations, made comments at this question.

Frequency of Review

5.3 Thirteen respondents commented that they supported a two yearly review cycle and a small number of these respondents noted that this is particularly important in early years.

5.4 Several of the respondents who suggested two yearly reviews commented on the need for regular reviews due to the evolving nature of issues under consideration, rapid technological developments, and also to take account of research and monitoring outcomes as they emerge. Conversely, Shetland Islands Council felt that initial reviews would only be needed every four years moving to two years as the pace of technology advances.

5.5 Association of Salmon Fishery Boards suggested that reviews should take place as and when new information becomes available. Galloway Fisheries Trust commented in similar vein that the Plans should be reviewed and updated on a rolling programme, specifically when new research becomes available.

5.6 Four respondents commented the quinquennial reviews would be appropriate, whilst three suggested reviews every three years.

5.7 Scottish Enterprise commented that the review process of the sectoral plans should be linked to the review process for the National Marine Plan ( NMP), which is at the top of the hierarchy of policy in the marine planning process. RYA Scotland also identified advantages of synchronisation with the cycle for the NMP, but with updates being issued or revisions being made to take account of emerging knowledge.

Composition of the Plans Review Steering Group

5.8 The main theme to emerge from comments regarding who should be involved in the Plans Review Steering Group, to oversee the review process, was that a mix of stakeholders should be included.

5.9 Some respondents included lists of suggested organisations and stakeholder groups and several stipulated that developers should be included. Specific suggestions included:

• Local authorities with a significant number of sites in their area such as Argyll and Bute / Local Planning Authorities;
• Scottish Enterprise;
• Scottish Renewables;
• Members of the public;
• Fisheries sector interests / Scottish Fishermen's Federation;
• The marine and coastal sport and recreation sector regulators;
• Local marine users;
• Environmental and interest groups
• A representative from National Grid;
• The Crown Estate
• Regional level groups e.g. Pentland Firth and Orkney Waters Leadership Forum.

5.10 As indicated by the list above, a number of respondents emphasised the importance of including sub-groups with a regional or local focus.