The Marine Management Organisation (MMO) has launched a new system for licensing marine activities in seas around England, a commitment set out in the Marine and Coastal Access Act 2009.
The organisation says that the new system will result in a streamlined application process for developers, and will enable the MMO to publish information about how its decisions take into account the needs of coastal communities and the environment.
The MMO currently deals with around 350 licence applications per year and this number is expected to increase significantly as investment in marine development continues to grow. Following public consultation, licensing charges will be proportionate, based on the work required to process the licence application.
Head of Regulation and Licensing, Andrew Beattie, said “With this new system we will offer a simpler and easier online service. We’ve listened to developers, industry and representative bodies who have been instrumental in shaping the system launched today."
Applications can be made via the Marine Management Organisation’s website at www.marinemanagement.org.uk/licensing/marine/apply.htm
