Church of Scotland leaders could join the battle against plans for ship-to-ship oil transfers in the Cromarty Firth.
Commissioners at the General Assembly have instructed the Church and Society Council to investigate the application proposed by the Cromarty Firth Port Authority.
It followed a passionate call for action from a former moderator, who warned of a “catastrophic” pollution risk to a “precious part of creation”.
Very Rev Dr Alan McDonald, who moved to Cromarty on the Black Isle after retiring last year and served as moderator in 2006-07, had lodged a motion against the port’s proposal.
Highlighting the existing practice of oil transfers at the Nigg jetty, he said: “Oil transfers have safely taken place there for 30 years so why on earth are they not continuing to do it there, securely at a jetty rather than out at sea close to the dolphins and everything else in our fragile eco-system?
“There are other troubling aspects to this issue. It is estimated that possibly two million tonnes of contaminated ships’ ballast water could be discharged into this precious part of creation.
“Fumes from crude oil will be released that could affect the health of creatures and human beings on surrounding shores. Then there are oil spills that could be catastrophic to the coast and communities around the Moray Firth.”
His motion was backed by the General Assembly and the Church and Society Council on the basis that further research is carried out.
Council convener, Rev Dr Richard Frazer, said the proposal “gives us cause for concern”.
He added: “The risk of major spillage is increased but before we call for a particular course of action we will carry out some research and examine both sides of the arguments before taking a reasoned position.”
Campaign group Cromarty Rising, which has presented a 100,000-signature petition against the plans to Holyrood, welcomed the move last night.
A spokesman said: “We are encouraged by the actions of the General Assembly and look forward to working with them constructively and to assist in their research.
“The opposition to the Port of Cromarty Firth’s plan continues to grow on a daily basis.”
A Port spokeswoman said: “We continue to listen to feedback and would welcome a meeting with the Church of Scotland to fulfil their request to hear both sides of the argument.
“The Port remains open and transparent, and the health, safety and environment of the Cromarty Firth remains our top priority.”