MARINE MANAGEMENT ORGANISATION
Share your views on proposed management measures for marine protected areas (MPAs)
MMO is seeking views on proposed management measures to protect some of England’s most sensitive marine ecosystems, habitats and species from damaging fishing activity.
The proposed measures would protect features essential for healthy and functioning marine ecosystems in 42 offshore English MPAs. These measures include:
- prohibitions of fishing using bottom towed gear in specified areas in 31 MPAs;
- prohibition of fishing using bottom towed gears and prohibitions on fishing using static gears (traps and/or bottom set nets and lines) in specified areas in five MPAs;
- prohibition of fishing using traps in a specified area of one MPA;
- prohibition of fishing using bottom towed gear and prohibition of the removal of spiny lobster, also known as crawfish (Palinurus elephas) in a specified area of one MPA;
Minor changes to existing bottom towed gear prohibitions in five MPAs to reflect the most up to date approach, habitat location and depth information
Measures would be delivered through the creation of four proposed byelaws, each covering a different region. MMO is also requesting any additional views on their assessments of the impacts of fishing in these sites.
Copies of the draft byelaws, impact assessments, de minimis assessment, maps and coordinates of the areas are available the MMO website (www.gov.uk/government/collections/marine-protected-areas-stage-3-consultation). You may also call 0300 123 1032 or email conservation@marinemanagement.org.uk to request assistance.
If you wish to inspect copies of any of the consultation documents, please contact MMO
in writing: Marine Conservation Team, Marine Management Organisation, Lancaster House, Newcastle upon Tyne NE4 7YH
Find out more: www.gov.uk/ marine-protected-areas.
