Loch Ryan sandwich terns to get help from Norfolk wind farms

Plans have been drawn up to revive a seabird colony in southern Scotland to mitigate the impact of two wind farms hundreds of miles away.

It would create a haven for sandwich terns on Loch Ryan at a spot where they have not nested for more than a decade.

The project is linked to the Sheringham Shoal and Dudgeon offshore wind farm extensions which could affect bird numbers off the Norfolk coast.

Dumfries and Galloway Council is being recommended to approve the plans with a number of conditions.

A search of shorelines came up with the Dumfries and Galloway site as the best location to seek the return of sandwich terns.

A special coastal habitat would be created including an inland pool with islands to be surrounded by a “predator-proof” fence.

Bird viewing hides would also be set up to allow walkers to view the area without disturbing wildlife.

Developers Equinor want the scheme in southern Scotland to compensate for the predicted impact on breeding sandwich terns of extensions to its two Norfolk schemes.

The site was selected after a detailed search for suitable places to create or restore a habitat for the birds.

The area was identified as having been a historic breeding site up until about 15 years ago.

It appears the site was vacated by the colony primarily as a result of coastal erosion.

Opponents have raised concerns about the low likelihood of the project being a success and problems linked to additional visitors to the site.

They have also voiced fears that other species in the area could be adversely affected.

However, a report by council planners has recommended the scheme should be given the all clear.

It said the project had “acceptable environmental credentials” and could go ahead with a number of conditions attached.