« Previous | Contents |
Listen
Summary of Analysis of Responses to the Public Consultation for a Proposed Marine Reserve in Lamlash Bay
1. This report summarises the analysis of the responses to the Scottish Government's public consultation on 'A Proposed Marine Reserve in Lamlash Bay' in 2008. The consultation paper outlined the background to the proposed Marine Reserve, the proposed area that this would encompass and the underpinning statutory measures proposed to formalise it. Additionally, information was provided with regard to the purpose of the Marine Reserve; what the available options were; some description of how different groups and sectors might be affected if the proposed Marine Reserve were to be put in place; and a map of the area which detailed possible boundaries.
2. The consultation document sought to elicit public and stakeholder views on the proposed Marine Reserve where all fishing activities within an area of Lamlash Bay would be prohibited, thereby creating a No Take Zone (NTZ).
3. By the end of consultation on 5 June 2008 a total of 675 responses had been received. These provided comments on: the information contained in the consultation paper; individual experiences regarding Lamlash Bay; general understanding of related issues; and scientific issues relating to Lamlash Bay. Within this number were 150 postcards supporting the proposals. Of the other 525 responses, 484 were from individuals and 41 from a variety of public sector organisations, charities, interest groups and private companies. Of these, 36 highlighted positive gains from the NTZ, 13 stated they could envisage no negative implications and 7 identified negative points. From the number of responses excluding the postcards, 520 were for the NTZ and 5 (less than 1%) were against.
4. The Analysis of the reasons given for the 520 responses in favour of the no take zone identified several themes. The most prevalent and obvious reason for supporting the proposal was the maintenance and improvement of marine biodiversity: the purpose of the proposed Marine Reserve. Other potential benefits identified included economic growth and opportunity. Generally, these related to fishing i.e. a potential increase in fish stocks within the No Take Zone and Marine Protected Area, resulting in populations resuming in areas adjacent to the Marine Reserve; and to the local community, in the form of improved tourism and recreational interest which was expected to provide increased income.
5. Understandably, the responses submitted by organisations differed from those of individuals in that more evidence was presented in support of their responses and that more attention was given to the long term socio-economic and environmental outcomes of a Marine Reserve for local and wider communities.
6. 21% (109 responders) of the responses were from Arran. 25% (11 responders) of the responses from organisations were also from Arran. 41% (215) of the responders gave no indication of their source.
7. Conclusions
The analysis revealed that there was wide and deep rooted support for the proposed Marine Reserve, and it's objectives, amongst individuals and organisations. This were substantiated with consideration of the positive implications, which were reiterated and sometimes corroborated with scientific findings through many responses.
The objections to the proposed Marine Reserve were all from fishermen and made on the basis that the Marine Reserve would adversely effect the fishing industry. Most stated, however, general support for innovations contributing to the improvement and sustainability of fish stocks. That the objections received were all from the fishing sector indicates it is likely that, despite fishing representatives being involved in the development of the proposals, there will continue to be generic and location specific issues to be addressed when considering marine management proposals in the future.
The overall ramifications of a no take zone caused some concerns and highlighted some misunderstandings of the logistical nature of the Marine Reserve. It was also felt that there was a clear need for a well planned and transparent monitoring and assessment program to establish the impact of the measures, reassure the various stakeholders and inform future Scottish marine management.
« Previous | Contents |