Environmental Statement - Maersk Oil

Balloch Field Development Environmental Statement
Section 3 Baseline Environment
Fish species in the area are widely distributed. Spawning and nursery areas cannot be defined with
absolute accuracy as they are found to shift over time. However, there is evidence of Norway pout
and Nephrops spawning in the development area, while sprat and whiting have spawning grounds
nearby. Juvenile Norway pout, Nephrops, and blue whiting use the area as a nursery ground, while
juvenile haddock and sprat are found at relatively close distances (15 ‐ 40 km) to the development
area.
The Balloch field development is within an area of relatively low fishing effort, representing
approximately 1 % of the total UK fishing effort over recent years. The area is predominately targeted
for demersal and shellfish species. Landings within the area are also relatively low compared with
other areas of the UK, representing less than 1 % of live catches over recent years.
The overall seabird vulnerability to surface pollution is moderate and peaks during November. During
the installation period for the well, the Offshore Vulnerability Index ranges from low to very high.
A number of cetacean species frequent the development area, including white‐sided dolphin, white‐
beaked dolphin, minke whale, and harbour porpoise. Of the cetaceans sighted, the harbour porpoise
is the only one protected under Annex II of the Habitats Directive.
The Balloch development is situated in close proximity to approximately 22 vessel routes within 10
nautical miles. These routes are trafficked by approximately 1,990 vessels per annum (approximately
5 vessels per day).
The Balloch field is located within a well‐developed oil and gas area of the Central North Sea, with
many hydrocarbon fields and supporting infrastructure and pipelines in the area. Other types of
subsea cables in the area include an out of service telecommunications cable. There are no known
military exercise areas or renewable energy developments in the wider area.
The Balloch development will contribute towards maintaining employment in local services and
provide a valuable financial return to the exchequer.
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