MSP Douglas Ross Presses SNP Ministers on Moray Firth Wind Plans

Concerns are mounting over the proposed Floating Wind Operations and Maintenance (FLOW) Park in the Moray Firth as MSP Douglas Ross prepares to challenge SNP ministers in the Scottish Parliament this week. During the upcoming portfolio question time on November 11, Ross intends to highlight significant local opposition to the project, which he describes as “huge and ever-growing.”

The FLOW-Park would serve as a temporary storage site for the bases of offshore wind turbines. However, the initiative has sparked considerable backlash from local residents, fishermen, and coastal communities. Nearly 2,000 individuals have signed a petition urging the Scottish Government to abandon the project, citing concerns that their needs and opinions are being overlooked.

Ross criticized the government for ignoring the voices of those living along the Moray coast, stating, “All too often local communities, including those in Moray and the Highlands, are being ignored regarding energy projects.” He emphasized that it is “shocking” for local stakeholders to feel marginalized in discussions that directly impact their livelihoods.

In a proactive move, Tim Eagle, another MSP from the Highlands and Islands, has organized a public meeting at Forres Town Hall. This event will provide residents an opportunity to question representatives from Offshore Solutions Group, the firm behind the FLOW-Park proposal. Ross remarked that the developers will have “no hiding place” and will be held accountable by the local community.

While Ross welcomes the public meeting, he insists that the responsibility lies with the ministers to ensure that community concerns are taken seriously. “I will be raising their concerns directly with ministers in Parliament later this week to find out if they will ensure these voices will be heard as the plans are considered,” he stated.

The MSP expressed his commitment to opposing the development, arguing that it would “ruin the area.” He called upon Scottish ministers to recognize the substantial local opposition and act accordingly. The forthcoming discussions in Holyrood and the public meeting in Forres represent critical moments for community engagement in the future of the Moray Firth.

As the debate continues, local stakeholders remain vigilant, seeking to influence the outcome of a project that could have far-reaching implications for their environment and livelihoods.