The firm behind controversial proposals for Moray FLOW-Park have said they will now not be attending tomorrow’s public meeting due to “safety concerns” for its staff.
Buckie-based MSP Tim Eagle, who has arranged the public meeting, described Offshore Solutions Group’s (OSG) last-minute decision as “insulting” towards the residents of Moray who have concerns about the project.
Despite Mr Eagle meeting the company on multiple occasions to accommodate its demands, the firm said it had come to the decision following “social media content” and “direct communication” from residents.
Tim Eagle MSP is in talks with Crown Estate Scotland, the public corporation that manages the coastline on behalf of the Scottish Government, to confirm if they still intend on coming to the meeting.
The 20-mile proposals would see floating platforms, the size of around 5,600 football pitches, built along the Moray Firth to store wind turbines before they are taken out to sea.
Buckie-based Scottish Conservative MSP Tim Eagle said: “Threats towards anyone are unacceptable but these concerns were raised with me weeks ago by OSG who at that point, said they were still attending.
“As per their request, they asked for police to attend which had been confirmed with officers, but I did not believe there was any risk to anyone.
“I worry this last-minute decision is an excuse for avoiding questioning from communities who have valid concerns about these proposals.
“In numerous meetings with Offshore Solutions Group, I did everything to make sure their demands were met so residents had the chance to ask vital questions about a development which they believe puts their livelihoods at risk.
“For the company to now insinuate that someone in Moray might put the safety of its staff in jeopardy is extremely disappointing and, in my opinion, insulting to local people.
“Offshore Solutions Group has a responsibility to hold adequate consultations with those affected, especially given this project was hidden from the public eye for so long.
“Communities along the Moray Firth and beyond have a right to be heard and I will do everything to make sure this happens.”
In an email to Mr Eagle, an Offshore Solutions Group spokesperson said: “Under advisement, Offshore Solutions Group has made the difficult decision not to attend the Moray FLOW-Park public meeting, arranged by Tim Eagle MSP, on November 11.
“Whilst we are always open to engagement with all stakeholders, social media content, direct communications and activities relating to the proposed project have raised significant concerns regarding this public meeting and the safety of Offshore Solutions Group representatives.
“These concerns have been logged with Police Scotland.”
