Scottish Government is consulting on proposed fisheries management measures for more than 160 inshore Marine Protected Areas and locations containing vulnerable Priority Marine Features. The aim is to protect important habitats and species while supporting sustainable fishing and the coastal communities that depend on healthy seas.
Habitats such as maerl beds, seagrass meadows and horse mussel beds provide vital feeding, breeding and nursery grounds for marine life, and this consultation explores the most sustainable ways fishing can be managed across such vulnerable habitats.
The consultation remains open online until 18 January 2027 with a number of drop-in sessions and online events scheduled over that time. Fishers, residents, community groups and environmental organisations can respond. The feedback will help shape how Scotland balances marine conservation with the long-term use of its seas. More information on https://www.gov.scot/news/marine-protected-areas-consultation-launched/