The Scottish Government is pleased to announce that the consultation on proposed fisheries management measures for inshore Marine Protected Areas (MPA) and proposed Priority Marine Feature (PMF) management areas in Scottish waters has been launched:
The development of these proposals has been informed by years of stakeholder engagement, scientific evidence gathering and discussion with representatives from the fishing industry, environmental organisations, coastal communities, local authorities, and other interested parties.
Given the scale and complexity of the proposals, covering more than 160 sites and areas across Scotland’s inshore waters, the consultation has been extended beyond the standard 12-week duration and will run until 18 January 2027, going beyond the intended sixteen week period due to the festive period. This extended consultation will provide stakeholders and members of the public additional time to consider the evidence, reflect on the proposals, and provide informed views to help shape the future management of Scotland’s seas.
We strongly encourage you to take part in the consultation to have your say on how Scotland’s marine environment is managed.