The siting and design of aquaculture in the landscape: visual and ...

5.5.1 Buildings, yards and associated infrastructure
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Redundant buildings can offer the opportunity for conversion into offices and storage sheds.
The reuse of redundant buildings or slipways is often a positive contribution to the landscape.
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Even if existing buildings are not available for re-use, consider using existing access tracks and
other infrastructure, such as slipways, if possible
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Depots and depuration facilities often need access to water and will need to be located on the
coast or loch shore. This is often a sensitive location, especially in areas where development
between a road and the sea is restricted to maintain views of the water from roads or existing
housing and villages.
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Aim to site buildings low in the landscape, possibly tucked against a low hummock or rocky
outcrop, or adjacent to woodland, all of which can provide a setting for the development
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Consider an innovative and ecologically sound building style if new build is required, in
discussion with the local planning authority.
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Ensure that storage space is big enough to accommodate all storage needs now and
reasonably far in the future, either through well-scaled buildings or organised and adequate
external storage space. Car parking areas, too, often need to be larger than at first considered.
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The size of shore-based buildings and compounds should reflect the form and scale of other
buildings. Large buildings will stand out. Consider breaking them into smaller units. Wherever
possible, buildings should be orientated and aligned to fit in with locally characteristic designs
and layout.
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If a large storage shed is required, consider breaking up the mass of the building to reduce its
scale.
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Avoid excavating a steep slope and excessive under-building, and fit the buildings into the
gradient.
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Aim to create an appropriate setting for buildings by using fence or wall materials and designs
which relate to the character of the landscape. Avoid urban and suburban solutions.
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Although they may take longer to establish than ‘instant’ fencing barriers, well-established and
maintained planting may be more effective in the long term. At some sites, fencing could be
used to create a setting for a building until planting is established.
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Security lighting can be very intrusive, creating unwanted light pollution. Where security
measures are needed, to prevent vandalism or theft, operators should consider the use of
infrared cameras, which eliminate the need for overhead lighting.
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Where overhead lighting is required, baffles or guards should be fitted to reduce the focus light
downwards and limit the extent of light emission.
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