The structure of the Skye lava field

Richard W. England
Scottish Journal of Geology, 30, 33-37, 1 May 1994, https://doi.org/10.1144/sjg30010033

Synopsis

A new map and interpretation of the structure of the Skye lava field and its offshore continuation are presented. Onshore the base of the lavas is synclinal with a NW–SE axis resulting from loading-induced subsidence. The development of later N–S- to NE–SW-trending folds, including the offshore Canna Basin, is consistent with movement, during the Oligocene, on N–S- to NE–SW-trending faults controlling the structure of the Sea of the Hebrides Basin. Deposition of Oligocene sediments within the Canna Basin resulted in burial of potential hydrocarbon source rocks to depths of c. 2.3 km.

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