The Marine Management Organisation (MMO) has published England’s first ever plans for the future of its seas to provide much-needed guidance for sustainable development.
An interactive tool, the Marine Information System, explaining how marine plans affect specific areas has also been launched.
“We are making sure that environmental considerations are embedded in every decision about proposed developments along the coast from Flamborough Head to Felixstowe and in our seas out to the maritime borders with the Netherlands, Belgium and France,” said Environment Minister, George Eustice.
Marine plans will inform and guide decisions on development in marine and coastal areas, while conserving and enhancing the environment and recognising leisure uses too.
This should reduce costs and increase certainty for developers, says the MMO, boosting economic employment benefits for coastal communities and beyond.
The first two plans cover the East inshore and offshore areas, with a total of 11 plans covering English waters anticipated by 2021.
“By 2021, marine plans will cover the entire English marine area, supporting an estimated £50m of economic benefit each year and helping to promote sustainable development of the marine area,” Mr Eustice added.
The UK has one of the richest marine environments in the world, with more than 8,000 species recorded.
Plans will take full account of marine protected areas, recognising the wealth of species and habitats in UK seas.
