Call for evidence launches on proposals to better safeguard marine habitats. Key offshore habitats such as Dogger Bank could benefit from enhanced protections
England’s seas and marine wildlife could benefit from better protection and management as the Marine Management Organisation launches a call for evidence on proposals for managing five of England’s Marine Protected Areas.
The sites which could be further protected include The Canyons, a deep-sea habitat which harbours cold water corals, and Dogger Bank, the largest shallow sandbank in British waters, which are home to species such as sand eels, the favourite food of puffins and porpoises.
The Government plans to use the powers in the Fisheries Bill to put any new measures in place after the UK leaves the transition period.
Environment Secretary, George Eustice said: The UK is already leading the rest of the world by protecting over 30% of our waters - but we know there is more to do to allow our seas to fully recover. Leaving the EU means we can introduce stronger measures and the Fisheries Bill proposes new powers to better manage and control our Marine Protected Areas. This call for evidence represents the next step in that journey, ensuring our marine life can recover and thrive.”
To date around 40% of England’s seas have been designated for protection and management measures have already been introduced in many inshore sites, through byelaws introduced by both Marine Management Organisation and the Inshore Fisheries and Conservation Authorities.
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Posted On: 28/10/2020