Consultation on Proposed Extensions to Existing Seabird Colony Special Protection Areas (SPAs)

How to Make Comments on the Proposals and How These Will Be Considered

The proposal to extend the existing seabird SPAs into the marine environment and the decision to amend the citations have been based upon scientific studies. Scottish Ministers will take final decisions on whether to proceed with these proposals based on scientific information.

Ministers are also keen, however, to have any information and views on activities which take place in or near these marine areas which may be affected by the proposals. While such views and information cannot influence site selection, they will be invaluable in helping consider the impact of the extensions and informing any management proposals for these areas.

Any views and observations on the scientific aspects of the proposals and their application to individual sites are invited.  In addition any information and views on activities within these areas is also invited.  Please note that any responses will be made public as part of any summary of views on the consultation unless confidentiality is clearly requested in your response

How do we respond with our views?

Responses can be made by email to SPA_consultation_responses@snh.gov.uk or in writing to SPA Consultation Responses, Scottish Natural Heritage, Great Glen House, Leachkin Road, Inverness, IV3 8NW.

When will the consultation run?

The consultation is over a 12 week period from 27th June to 22nd September 2008.

Who is being consulted?

The consultation is targeted at all who may have an interest in these areas. This includes local users of the areas, local and national organisations, local and national industry bodies and the general public.

How will any comments I have be dealt with?

Comments received during the consultation process will be collated by SNH and reported to Scottish Ministers so that scientific comments can be considered before any decision is made whether the SPAs should be extended.  Comments on socio-economics can be incorporated into the management of sites.

How will I find out about the decision?

Once Scottish Ministers have made any decision SNH will inform all relevant parties including those who have made representations.

Where can I find out more information?

If you require further information please contact us on SPA_consultation_information@snh.gov.uk  and if you have any specific questions relating to local issues, please contact the relevant SNH Area office contact as detailed below.