Leading conservation charity, the Scottish Wildlife Trust has warmly welcomed news that the Sound of Barra is set to be formally recognised as one of Europe’s most important areas for marine wildlife. 

European law requires the establishment of Special Areas of Conservation for rare and threatened habitats and species on land and at sea. 

The Sound, an area of sea between the Islands of Barra and South Uist, has been selected for its harbour seals, sandbanks and reef habitat and once designated, the area will be managed to protect those features from damage. 

The proposed area contains possibly the largest beds in the UK of the coral-like seaweed,  maerl –  an important nursery habitat for commercial fish and shellfish.

The site will also offer protection to harbour seals, which have suffered local declines over the last 20 years. 

Living Seas Policy Officer for the Scottish Wildlife Trust, Alex Kinninmonth said: 

“The Scottish Wildlife Trust is pleased that a decision has finally been made on the protection of the Sound of Barra. 

“It is imperative for Scotland’s wildlife, economy and international reputation that our most significant natural assets are given the fullest protection and the Sound of Barra is certainly one of Scotland’s wildlife jewels.

“However, designation is only the first step as the site must be well-managed.  

“This will inevitably mean some restrictions, but low impact activities compatible with the new protected status will be allowed to continue and should thrive in the long term.

“Global experience shows that the success of protected areas hinges on the cooperation of those who live and work in the area, so we are pleased to hear that local communities are to be at the heart of developing a management plan.”

The news comes as the Scottish Government prepares to publically consult on a network of Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) in Scottish waters. 

The network will be formed of existing European sites as well as up to 33 new nature conservation MPAs – recommended as sites of national importance to safeguard and regenerate nationally important marine species and habitats such as native oyster and seagrass beds.