SCOTLAND’S first semi-closed fish farm has moved a step closer after a planning application was submitted for a site in Loch Long.

Loch Long Salmon (LLS) wants to develop the site near Beinn Reithe and the proposals are now being considered by the Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park Authority.

The farm, which LLS hopes to be operational by 2023, will be made up of four circular shaped marine farming enclosures which will sit single file in a mooring grid around 300m from the western bank of Loch Long, and will employ approximately 12 people.

Helensburgh Advertiser: Map of Beinn Reithe location in Loch LongMap of Beinn Reithe location in Loch Long

LLS director, Stewart Hawthorn, said the site “provides the ideal environment for semi-closed aquaculture”, adding: “We are excited to be the first company bringing this transformative farming system to Scotland.”

He said: “Our technology will allow salmon farming to thrive in Scotland’s rural coastal areas, such as Loch Long, with a significantly improved environmental and fish welfare performance.

"We will be working closely with local stakeholders to demonstrate how the proposed farm will be good for the environment, good for the salmon and good for the local community.”