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MSP Allan Wilson & W & J
Knox Limited working to solve outdoor nuisance caused by net washing
operations.
 Constituency
MSP and Environment Minister Allan Wilson and local net manufacturers W & J
Knox Limited
are working together with Scottish Executive officials and the environmental
regulator SEPA to
alleviate the periodic problems with outdoor nuisance caused by net washing
operations at their
Kilbirnie base. Company Director Jim Traynor said “We have introduced a
number of spray bars on the
crane in an attempt to scrub the air and drop smell particles”.
“We turn away deliveries of nets which we consider to be in an unacceptable
condition and are working
proactively with our customers to treat difficult consignments at source to
lessen the impact on our
neighbours”.
“We are also trying out a few ideas which involve shrouding the nets as they
are being lifted by the
crane and hopefully this will help” said Mr Traynor.
Allan Wilson MSP who lives locally said, “Knox’ are leaders in their field
in the UK and have been
developing their processes to keep pace with demand. Netwashing is now a
vital part of their business
and helps to sustain 175 jobs in the community”
“I have asked officials to explore whether the company might be eligible for
financial assistance under
the EU Fisheries Scheme (FIFG) to design and construct a larger washer which
can take a fully rolled up
net to avoid lifting to full crane height thereby minimising and containing
odour release to the
environment.”
“Knox provide a valuable service to Scotland’s aquaculture industry which
itself employs 6500 people
nationwide and accounts for 40% of Scotland’s food exports”.
“It is important therefore nationally that everyone, company, local
regulators and civil servants do
what they can and provide whatever assistance is necessary to alleviate any
periodic odour nuisance and
sustain the employment and economic activity which their position as market
leaders brings to our
community” said Mr Wilson.
“Knox have been in existence in Kilbirnie since 1788 and has been a good
neighbour and valuable
employer over that period and I want to ensure their continued presence in
the town” said Mr Wilson. |
