In some places, dredging companies operate in close proximity to other sea users such as ports, fishermen and offshore energy development. This can result in the potential for spatial conflict between activities.
It is Government policy to minimise both the area of seabed licensed and the area of seabed dredged. By proactively working to deliver this requirement, BMAPA members have significantly reduced both the area of seabed licensed and the area of seabed dredged [Link to Area Involved]. Furthermore, through the introduction of active dredge area zones, the industry further limits the area within licensed areas where dredging may actually take place. This in turn is monitored using the electronic monitoring systems all dredgers are required to have.
The needs of all other marine users, including fisheries and fishermen, are considered from the earliest stages of a licence application through the environmental assessment. If unacceptable impacts are predicted or the proposed licence lies in a sensitive area such as a spawning ground, a dredging permission will not be issued.
A series of regional fisheries liaison groups enables constructive dialogue and open discussion of issues.
Zoning
In many cases, the area available to be dredged at any one time is restricted through zoning. This may be as a result of a licence condition or as voluntary initiatives by the operator. The value of such zoning lies in minimising the spatial footprint of marine aggregate dredging activity, which in turn can reduce the potential footprint of environmental impact, and reduces the potential for spatial impacts with other users of the sea. Zoning also allows operators to manage their resources more effectively.
BMAPA, in conjunction with The Crown Estate, has undertaken to produce active dredge area charts for all dredging regions on a bi-annual basis. These charts provide a snapshot of the extent of active dredge areas on the 31st January and 31st July, with any changes to working areas highlighted in red. The charts are distributed to the fishing industry through the District offices of the Marine and Fisheries Agency, and the latest versions can also be downloaded here:
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