The review panel, confirmed on 22 July, will consider the views of a wide range of stakeholders, including fishermen, conservation groups, marine industries and local communities. The Highly Protected Maritime Areas review, led by Richard Benyon MP, was first announced in June by the then Environment Secretary Michael Gove and follows the Government’s manifesto commitment to create a Blue Belt of marine protection for Britain’s overseas territories and its own coast. It is to build on the ambition of the 25 Year Environment Plan.
The seven strong advisory panel will examine whether and how the strongest protections for areas of English sea, known as Highly Protected Marine Areas (HPMAs) could be introduced, and, if supported by evidence, recommend potential locations for pilot sites. The panel will consider the economic and social impacts on business and individuals who use the sea, considering the views of a wide range of stakeholders, including conservation groups, marine industries and local communities.
To read more about the review panel, click here.