Consultation Launched: Temporary Closure of Shellfish Fisheries

Last Updated: 07/02/2022 – This consultation is now closed

Eastern IFCA is consulting with stakeholders regarding a proposed extension to the closure of the Wash Restricted Area Fishery to continue to provide protection to the site before permanent management comes into effect.

The Authority intends to renew the closure of the Wash Restricted Area Fishery (i.e. the area between the Wash Fishery Order 1992 and the le Strange Estate Fishery) using Byelaw 8: Temporary Closure of Shellfish Fisheries. To view a chart of the area and associated coordinates, please click here.

The Wash Emergency Byelaw, which previously closed the area to fishing without a permit, expired prior to the implementation of its permanent replacement, the Wash Restricted Area Byelaw 2019.  A temporary closure was introduced during 2020 using Byelaw 8 in order to protect the site whilst the replacement byelaw was implemented.  It was intended that the replacement byelaw would have been in place during 2020, however, unexpected delays mean that more time is required.

Eastern IFCA therefore, propose that the closure is maintained (from the 26th January) for a further period of 12 months or until the Wash Restricted Area Byelaw 2019 is implemented, whichever is sooner.

If you have any comments regarding this closure, please make a written representation by 21st January 2022 to:

CEO, Eastern Inshore Fisheries & Conservation Authority, Unit 6 North Lynn Business Village, Bergen Way, King’s Lynn, Norfolk, PE30 2JG.

Or by email to mail@eastern-ifca.gov.uk