Two major marine habitats off the Jurassic Coast could benefit from better protection as the UK leaves the EU.
The Marine Protected Area (MMO) has begun seeking evidence on proposals to manage five of England’s marine protected areas, including the South Dorset Marine Protected Area (MCZ) and the Studland Bay MCZ.
People can fill out online surveys and provide suggestions on how to better protect their marine habitats. The government will take new steps after the UK ends the transition period.
Initially, MMO seeks views and additional evidence on proposed assessments for four marine protected areas: South Dorset MCZ, Canyons MCZ in Cornwall, Dogger Bank Special Reserve in the North Sea, Inner Downing, and Race Bank. Northridge off the coast of Lincolnshire.
Draft ratings cover the protected features of each site and the management options proposed for specific activities within these areas.
In addition to the four offshore sites, MMOs are also seeking input on possible management options within the Studland Bay MCZ, which has seahorses and seagrass beds.
Tom McCormack, Chief Executive Officer of MMO, said: “Our aim is to protect and strengthen the precious marine environment and support the UK’s economic growth.” We fish while protecting the precious marine environment for the benefit of future generations. Allows sustainable marine activities such as and renewable energy to co-exist with other ocean users. This request for evidence to support new management proposals in these five areas better protects and manages oceans and coasts It shows our commitment to do.
“We look forward to engaging with stakeholders now and in the future so that we can produce results that are” mutually beneficial “together for the benefit of the environment, people and economy. .. ”
The government plans to use the powers of the Fisheries Bill to take new steps after the UK ends the transition period.
Environment Secretary George Eustice said: “The UK is already a world leader in protecting more than 30% of the ocean, but there is still much work to be done to fully restore the ocean.
“Leaving the EU means that stronger measures can be introduced, and the Fisheries Bill proposes new powers to better manage and manage marine protected areas.
“This demand for evidence represents the next step in that journey, ensuring that our marine life can recover and prosper.”
MMO draft assessment and ocean management options will be available at consult.defra.gov.uk/mmo/call-for-evidence-mmo-mpa-assessments/ until December 15. The evidence presented at this stage will help shape the MMO assessment and provide information. Option prior to formal consultation on site management in early 2021.
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