Verdicts awaited on two critical environment issues

18 November 2024

Hearings were held last week (11-15 November) in Edinburgh and the Highlands on two critical issues for the environment.     

At the Court of Session in Edinburgh a case was brought by Greenpeace and Uplift calling for the approval granted by the previous government for the Rosebank oilfield west of Shetland to be suspended while fuller environmental impact assessments are carried out.  Closing the case last Friday the judge, Lord Ericht, said  "I shall issue my judgment in due course."   

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At the same time in Clashmore Hall, reporters for the Scottish government's  Planning, Environment and Appeals Division (DPEA), heard arguments for and against renewed proposals to build a golf course on Coul Links north of Dornoch.  A planning application originally approved by Highland Council in December 2023 was 'called in' by Scottish Ministers as an objection had been lodged by Naturescot, a statutory consultee.  A decision on this appeal is not expected before January or February 2025.   

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