On 9 June 2025, we launched our consultation on proposed fisheries management measures for Stage 3 marine protected areas (MPAs). In England, we're fortunate to have a diverse array of marine habitats in our seas. These habitats serve as refuges …
Britain is home to two species of seals: the grey seal (Halichoerus grypus) and the common or harbour seal (Phoca vitulina). While they usually spend their time lounging on beaches to conserve energy, they occasionally wander into more hazardous environments. They bounce …
Sian McGuinness from the Marine Planning team discusses a new study “The opportunity for climate action through climate-smart Marine Spatial Planning”, led by Plymouth Marine Laboratory “After almost 100 years on the planet, I now understand the most important place …
The Marine Management Organisation (MMO) Marine Licensing team answer some of the frequently asked questions they receive about the marine licensing process. What is a marine licence? A marine licence is a consent granted under the Marine and Coastal Access …
It’s Invasive Non-Native Species (INNS) week across the UK – a national effort to raise awareness of the threat invasive species pose to our environment, economy, and native wildlife. For those working on or near the water, especially fishers, you …
On 7 May representatives from the marine planning departments of England, Guernsey, Ireland, Jersey, Northern Ireland, the Isle of Man, Scotland, and Wales attended the Seven Nations Marine Planning Workshop, organised by the Marine Management Organisation (MMO). The in-person workshop …
An SPP, required under the Marine and Coastal Access Act 2009 (MACAA), is the contract between the MMO and our stakeholders which sets out how, when, and why we carry out engagement. An SPP also outlines what we will do …
The Marine Planning Team are pleased to announce the release of a new video on marine plan-led decisions, now available to view on YouTube: Marine plan policy assessment in decision-making - YouTube This informative video is designed to support applicants, …
We share highlights from across the marine plan areas, showcasing our engagement, events, and collaborative initiatives. From student workshops and coastal restoration to conference presentations and policy support, the coastal planners continue to champion sustainable marine management around our coast. …
The UK has been an early adopter of offshore wind, installing turbines in our waters since the turn of the century. We now boast 14.7GW of installed capacity, and in 2023 offshore wind produced 30% of the UK’s electricity needs. …
Many marine developments, including offshore wind, are required to collect a huge amount of survey data during the lifetime of their project. A lot of this data is collected to fulfil monitoring requirements that are agreed as part of a …