Formal Consultation: Closed Areas Byelaw 2021

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

Eastern IFCA is launching a formal consultation on the Closed Areas Byelaw 2021 which will restrict certain fishing activities in some areas within five Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) in the Eastern IFC district.

This consultation provides an opportunity for stakeholders to comment on or object to the byelaw before it is finalised.

This consultation will close on 4^th February 2022.

More information about the byelaw, including the full text, impact assessment, charts and coordinates can be found below.

What is this byelaw about?

The Closed Areas Byelaw 2021 will introduce new restricted areas within some parts of five MPAs where bottom towed fishing, and in one new area crab tiling and hand-working, will not be permitted. Limited shrimp fishing activity will be allowed to continue within the Artisanal Shrimp Management Area (chart 4), in accordance with the policy for managing this activity.

The byelaw will replace the Marine Protected Areas Byelaw 2018. The restricted areas that are already in place under that byelaw will remain unchanged under the new byelaw, except for one area in the Humber Estuary that is reduced in size, one area in The Wash that has been extended, and another area in The Wash whose shape has been amended.

How can I comment?

Please send your responses to this consultation by 4th February 2022 to Eastern IFCA by post or by email to:

CEO, Eastern Inshore Fisheries & Conservation Authority, Unit 6 North Lynn Business Village, Bergen Way, King’s Lynn, Norfolk, PE30 2JG.
Email: mail@eastern-ifca.gov.uk

Please also send a copy of your response to the MMO: Marine Conservation and
Enforcement Team, Marine Management Organisation, Lancaster House, Hampshire Court, Newcastle-Upon-Tyne, NE4 7HY
Email: IFCAbyelaws@marinemanagement.org.uk

Links

Please do not hesitate to contact Eastern IFCA if you have any concerns or questions about the consultation.