Tórshavnar Kommuna relies on outdated environmental assessment for Stórutjørn project in the Faroe Islands

Tórshavnar Kommuna has opted to rely on a 14-year-old environmental assessment related to a much smaller project, rather than conducting new environmental studies as recommended by the National Museum of the Faroe Islands.

This decision is revealed in correspondence obtained by Kringvarpið between Tórshavnar Kommuna and the museum.

Despite objections from the National Museum, Tórshavnar Kommuna chose to proceed with plans for Stórutjørn, concerning the incoming road and development in the Hoyvík area, based on a 2008 environmental assessment.

The museum argued for new environmental studies, as the 2008 assessments do not accurately reflect the local flora and fauna. Additionally, the previous studies were conducted for a project that has since evolved into a significantly larger undertaking.

Herleif Hammar, the director of the National Museum, stated in a letter to Tórshavnar Kommuna that the current project “diverges significantly from the original building plan and does not resemble the streets laid out throughout the city.” This comment was made in relation to a road at Stórutjørn, which the museum claims substantially alters the natural environment concerning both materials and width.

“The road is four meters wide, and combined with the materials excavated and set aside, the natural area has been altered and damaged to a breadth that in many places exceeds 15 meters,” Hammar wrote.

He emphasized that while the museum recognizes the necessity of infrastructure development for the growth of land and municipalities, it is crucial to minimize environmental impacts wherever possible. Hammar also pointed out that in many neighboring countries, it is a requirement for municipalities to consider environmental advice when undertaking development projects.