Moray Council is “hopeful” it can be the catalyst for a lasting resolution to a deeply divisive wrangle over wildfowling at a coastal nature reserve.
The local authority this week mediated in talks between campaigners who believe the practice should be outlawed and shooters who are keen to ensure its future.
Yesterday, the chairman of the council’s economic development and infrastructure services committee, John Cowe, said he was optimistic both sides would reach a compromise before the hunting season gets under way in September.
Mr Cowe said: “It is up to both sides to find a compromise they can all live with.
“Like all compromises, it will not be exactly what each side wants, but we all have to give a little if we are to share the same spaces.
“I felt there was some movement from both sides, so I am hopeful that an accommodation can be reached before the start of next season.”
The Friends of Findhorn Bay group amassed 800 signatures on a petition calling for the practice to be outlawed.
And though that remains the group’s ultimate goal, members said they would compromise by instead limiting the pastime to certain areas of the shore ahead of the forthcoming season.
National bodies weighed in on the issue that has caused ripples within the coastal community for months.
The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) and the Scottish Association for Country Sports are both eager to see Moray Council impose a by-law.
The RSPB believes the authority should introduce a strictly regulated “management system” by the bay.
A spokeswoman said: “We believe a by-law-regulated system would offer the best chance for birds to be able to use the bay with minimal disturbance, and for the value and conservation status of this important place to be maintained.
“We urge Moray Council to take the lead on resolving the controversy at Findhorn Bay through this method.”
The director of the Scottish Association for Country Sports, Alex Stoddart, attended Monday’s meeting with wildfowler Martin Gauld.
Mr Stoddart added: “Wildfowling is an ancient activity which is good for conservation and brings in much-needed visitor revenue during the off-season.
“The meeting was positive for both sides and led to basic agreement on an outline proposal.”