As part of the UK government’s commitment to leave the environment in a better state than we inherited it, an independent review of Highly Protected Marine Areas (HPMAs) – which represent the upper end of environmental protection – was publicly launched on the 8 June 2019.
The 6 month review, led by ex-fisheries Minister Richard Benyon MP, has been asked to recommend whether and how HPMAs could be introduced within English inshore and off shore waters and Northern Irish offshore waters and, if supported by the evidence, recommend potential locations for pilot sites.
A four-week call for evidence launches today inviting communities, industry and stakeholders for their comments on introducing tougher measures to help stop the impacts of human activity from damaging the marine environment. Views are also sought on which areas would benefit most from these extra protections.
https://consult.defra.gov.uk/marine/highly-protected-marine-areas-call-for-evidence/