PLANS to convert a redundant fish hatchery building into an operations centre for the Catrine hydro scheme have been lodged with East Ayrshire Council officials.

The Catrine Community Trust is seeking permission for a ‘change of use’ of the building on Laigh Road, which has not been used for its original purpose for more than a decade.

In a supporting statement published on the local authority’s website, agent Richard Maxton of Agricultural Technology (UK) Ltd says: “The existing former fish hatchery building with associated parking was approved on September 11, 2007.

“The building was then erected in 2008 and remained in operation as a fish hatchery for Catrine Community Trust until 2011, by which time it had been proven that it was not possible to rear viable wild salmon on this site.

“The main reason for this was that the River Ayr, which served the hatchery with oxygenated water, is infected by a fungal disease (whitespot). Since then artificial rearing of wild fish is no longer considered best practice.”

The statement continues: “Catrine Community Trust and its trading subsidiary are keen to play an important part in moving Catrine to net zero by expanding the efficiency and scope of renewable energy and heat generation.

“Repurposing the current tank room to an operations and communications centre for hydro staff will be pivotal in achieving this goal.”

The application can be viewed on East Ayrshire Council’s website by searching for the reference code 22/0538/PP.

A decision on the application is expected by October 23.