Cooke Scotland Invests in Sustainable Salmon Production with New Hatchery Facility
On March 2, 2026, Cooke Scotland marked a significant milestone with the groundbreaking of a modern Recirculating Aquaculture System (RAS) at their salmon hatchery in Cairndow, Argyll. This innovative facility is set to transform the company’s salmon production practices in the United Kingdom.
Community Engagement and Celebration
The groundbreaking event brought together a diverse group of local community members, funders, employees, and notable figures including a Member of the Scottish Parliament (MSP). This gathering celebrated not only the innovative facility but also the commitment to sustainable fish production.
Enhancing Sustainability and Fish Welfare
The newly designed RAS facility aims to drastically reduce freshwater consumption while enhancing water control. This exciting development will enable hatchery staff to nurture healthier and more robust smolts with a smaller ecological footprint. Colin Blair, Managing Director at Cooke Scotland, stated:
“This groundbreaking event signals a major step forward for our freshwater operations, allowing us to increase the supply of bigger, healthier smolts for our sites for years to come. This development reflects our dedication to fish welfare and sustainable growth.”
Blair also expressed gratitude for the grant support received for this project, which is expected to double the workforce at the hatchery, creating long-term, well-paid jobs for the local community.
An Innovative Approach to Aquaculture
The RAS technology employs a closed-loop system that efficiently recycles water, significantly reducing water usage compared to traditional aquaculture systems. Currently, the Cairndow facility operates with five staff members, but the new project will enhance both efficiency and staffing.
Once completed in late 2027, this facility will surpass the size of the existing RAS at Cooke’s Furnace Hatchery, marking ambitious growth for the company.
L-R Andy Young, Colin Blair, Jenni Minto MSP, Morag Goodfellow, Owen Hutchins
Official Start of Construction
The ceremony culminated in a symbolic first dig by employees and guests, including MSP Jenni Minto, who commented:
“I was delighted to attend the groundbreaking ceremony in Cairndow for this development. Aquaculture plays a significant role in our local economy, and this expansion will allow Cooke Scotland to increase their production, bringing more jobs to Cowal and boosting our economy.”
Support from Local Agencies
Cooke Scotland received crucial financial backing from Marine Fund Scotland for this endeavor and is collaborating closely with Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE). Morag Goodfellow, HIE Area Manager for Argyll and the Islands, emphasized the importance of aquaculture to the regional economy and its role in creating rural employment opportunities.
“This investment from Cooke Scotland is a significant step in enhancing the sector’s impact and creating jobs,” she stated.
Future of Salmon Production in Scotland
Cooke Scotland, known for producing high-quality organic salmon ova, employs dedicated, trained staff to nurture juvenile salmon until they are ready for open-water environments. With most of its freshwater operations situated in Argyll and Bute, the Scottish salmon sector contributes over £100 million to the local economy, supporting approximately 1,100 jobs.
Main Image © Cooke Scotland
L-R Andy Young, Colin Blair, Jenni Minto MSP, Morag Goodfellow, Owen Hutchins
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