The Sound of Barra, located in the Western Isles, is to be designated a site of Special Area of Conservation (SAC).

The move by the Scottish Government will help protect a pristine marine environment as well as give its wildlife and habitats international recognition.

The decision for the SAC, which has been met by fierce opposition over fears it would restrict fishing in the area, was approved following an independent review which looked at the scientific case for the designation.

The reviewers concluded they are satisfied that the scientific data was robust.

As part of the new status, Environment Minister Paul Wheelhouse has accepted the recommendation for designation with boundary changes to remove non-qualifying habitat. This means the world famous Traigh Mhor beach airport is no longer within the site boundary.

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The Sound of Barra will now be put forward to the European Commission for inclusion in plans for an EU-wide network of SACs.

Mr Wheelhouse said: "Thanks to generations of careful stewardship by the local community, Sound of Barra is a diverse and precious environment, home to important seal populations with reefs and sandbanks that support many species.

"The concerns of the local community have been taken into consideration and we will be implementing a new bottom up approach to the management structure to ensure as much local involvement as possible. I want all those with an interest to have the opportunity to work constructively together on securing a bright future for Sound of Barra and the wider region. I look forward to visiting again shortly to discuss the next steps with the local community.

"The scientific case for designation as a Special Area of Conservation has been found to be robust and that's why, after careful consideration, I've decided to accept the proposal. The outstanding beauty of Barra and its growing reputation as an important nature location can only be enhanced by SAC status, increasing tourism to the island.

"There have been a wide variety of views on designation – some for, some opposed – during an extensive period of consultation and consideration. And I understand that there are some concerns from local interests about economic impact.

"I hope that they will be reassured by my decision to focus the SAC on only relevant habitats and reduce down the overall size. I also believe that a viable local fishing industry can be fully compatible with SAC designation."

(JP/MH)