Cornwall Live readers have shown concern over the proposed seaweed farms in Port Quin Bay near Port Isaac, Cornwall. There has been a level of controversy among locals and celebrities alike. The plans, put forward by Biome Algae and Camel Fish Limited, have been met with significant resistance due to concerns over their potential impact on the environment and local community.
The plans came to light after it was revealed that the same people behind this scheme had also been behind a similar one in Gerrans Bay of the Roseland Peninsula but withdrew their application in the face of mounting opposition from residents and businesses.
The Port Quin Bay scheme would have led to some 144 160-metre longlines being deployed in the bay during September over two to three years, with seeded lines being installed in October and early November each year. Harvesting would take place in April or May of the following year. In addition, more than 1,720 buoys with marker lights on at night would be installed.
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Cornwall-loving celebrities have come out in support of a campaign by local residents and businesses against the proposed giant seaweed farms. Doc Martin actor Martin Clunes called the plans for a seaweed farm in Port Quin Bay "nothing short of criminal". He was later joined by Walking Dead and Love Actually star Andrew Lincoln who also waded in.
One of our readers Drastic asked: "Yet the celebs are allowed to build monstrosities all along the coastline, a bit hypocritical really."
Pugwa5h said: "There was some time ago a seaweed factory in Truro Newham Quay which exported it and put people in work."
Lou-lou commented: "I have a hunch these celebs want to build property all over it so of course they don't want it! Do they even live in the area or just pop down in the summer? Cornwall needs a way to make employment and industry outside of the tourists. But, any development needs to be heavily scrutinised!"
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Sclem asked: "Aside from the purported benefits to water quality and that seaweed is nearly 50 per cent protein, you'd think a largely agricultural region would be interested in a highly efficient source of fertilizer and animal feed - but if Doc Martin and Sheriff Grimes, who've both done so much more for Cornwall than farmers could ever hope to, say it's no good then we really had better listen."
Triggerandhisdoggo added: "If people want seaweed, why don’t they show how much they want it by collecting it off the beach, and then they might make a case for farming the stuff."
Me22222 said: "Well if it has been condemned by celebs, there's nothing else to discuss."
Rosepose added: "I'm all for it."
Slipperyslope remarked: "A pity these celebs don't have a go at the water company for fouling Cornwall's beaches; it would be very good to have a bit of celeb weight on that campaign wouldn't it?"
Do you agree with the celebrities or would like to see the seaweed farm become a reality? Let us know HERE or in the comments below.
