MARINE PARKS BRINGING IT ALL BACK HOME

A global idea that could work for Britain

A conference at the National Marine Aquarium Plymouth | June 2018 Executive Summary

In June 2018, Blue Marine Foundation (BLUE) and Plymouth benefits. There is much to be gained from branding City Council organised a conference at the National Marine and celebrating the diversity of our marine and coastal Aquarium to explore the idea of Marine Parks. The proposition ecosystems. discussed was that Marine Parks could improve the conservation of the natural beauty, wildlife and cultural The conference heard from several speakers that Plymouth heritage of the UK’s coastal waters and create more Sound and its nearby waters are an ideal testbed for a marine opportunities for the understanding and enjoyment of the park. It was agreed that by connecting and weaving together special qualities of outstanding marine areas by the public. pre-existing designations and uses, a National Marine Park in Plymouth Sound could improve the delivery of a range of The 130 delegates heard first-hand experience and public interest and conservation objectives. perspectives from around the world and from the length and breadth of the UK . A consensus was then reached: Global experience suggests that public interest and cross Marine Parks could be used to better protect coastal waters party support is essential for the creation of marine parks. as public assets while bringing shared prosperity, broader Plymouth would appear to fulfil these conditions: there is an public engagement and regeneration of deprived coastal interested, Labour-controlled council, led by Tudor Evans, communities. OBE, and cross-party political support for exploring the idea of a marine park in Plymouth Sound from both Luke So what is a marine park? A marine park, as envisaged by the Pollard, the Labour MP for Plymouth Sutton and Devonport, conference, is a multi-use space - an umbrella designation and from Michael Gove, the Conservative Environment that draws together pre-existing, valuable designations Secretary. There is a high-conservation-value environment, such as marine conservation zones, alongside commercial maritime heritage, varied marine stakeholders and a diverse and recreational uses of the marine space. city of over 250,000 people. Plymouth has an opportunity to become the example that others follow. The Marine Parks designation uses the power of narrative and better public understanding to derive wider benefits from a fragmented marine landscape: with the whole being more valuable than the sum of its existing parts. “The sea is in Plymouth’s DNA... I would like to be the first leader of any However, there cannot be a one-size-fits-all approach to city anywhere in the UK that has a marine parks. This is a designation that should be considered national park to its north, a river and on a case-by-case basis, and driven by the needs of local a country park to its east and west communities, reflecting community priorities and delivering and a national marine park to its locally-appropriate social, economic and environmental south.” Tudor Evans OBE

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Conference Proceedings event: highlighting how the idea of Plymouth drive to help tackle marine environmental Prof Atrill then posed some questions that Sound as a UK Marine Park had been part issues such as plastic pollution. would need to be answered to determine a of the platform for his election in 2017, and a clear vision for UK marine parks. Chairman’s Opening Remarks & concrete manifesto promise. National Marine Park or Marine National Address from Luke Pollard MP “The reaction from Plymouth marine Park?

sites and the wider community has been These two similar terminologies come Professor Martin Attrill, from Plymouth incredible… the enthusiasm has been with distinct legal implications. The University Marine Institute, welcomed amazing” creation of a ‘Marine National Park’ means guests to Britain’s ‘Ocean City’, and to the working within, and adding to, the existing National Marine Aquarium. He framed the He commented that the response to the framework. The first option - the ‘National day ahead as a ‘discussion of the concept’ idea from the local community has been Marine Park’ - would mean creating an of a UK National Marine Park, and a chance ‘incredible’ - with support and enthusiasm entirely new framework. to come to some conclusions as to how the from a range of industries, including the idea could be moved forwards. catching sector and local engineering Are marine parks about direct conservation firms. He spoke of a ‘strong, comprehensive policy? and compelling case’ for the existence of The development of a marine park could He concluded by noting that he hoped to national marine parks, but raised a number deliver a statement that the seas are as publish outline proposals for what a National of questions it was hoped the conference important to the UK as our land. Existing Marine Park in Plymouth could do, and how gathering could begin to answer: UK National Parks cover just 9% of our land it could connect with the public, later in the area, and only 4% of our total land plus year (2018). He hoped for this to be delivered • How do we get the right legislation in the UK Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). on a cross-party and cross-industry basis. place? However, overseas we are creating huge • What would it mean for local fishery areas that could be called ‘marine parks’ “Let’s make real the Government’s talk authorities - the Inshore Fisheries - large areas around overseas territories, about blue-belts” Conservation Authorities (IFCAs), for often designated as no-take zones. example? • What would it mean for existing Setting the Scene “Overseas the UK is creating huge areas conservation designations in the area? that could be called ‘marine parks’, with no He provided delegates with a vision to • How can we make this a ‘plain English’ way Prof Attrill pointed out to the conference equivalent scale in our domestic waters” consider: of communicating marine conservation, that this was a timely discussion: Secretary that can connect with the local public? of State for Environment, Food and Rural In our domestic waters, we have no “A Marine Park is a specially recognised Affairs, Rt Hon Michael Gove MP, has recently equivalent-scale designations. If all current coastal or marine space, important for its “How can we communicate this idea in announced a review of UK national parks and proposed Marine Conservation Zones environment and community health and plain English?” policy. Mr Gove’s adviser, Julian Glover, said are combined, this represents a coverage well-being.” the conference was of “central relevance” to of 11% of our waters. No-take zones within Pollard spoke of the huge public enthusiasm his review and is looking forward to reading this amount to just 7 kilometres squared, a Local Member of Parliament, Luke Pollard for marine conservation seen in the wake its conclusions. Prof Attrill noted that 90% of similar size to Richmond Park in . MP, provided an address to the conference of impactful television series such as Blue the public say national parks are important via video. He thanked attendees for Planet II, and the need to capture that energy to them. participating and provided context for the in proposals that connect with people’s

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“The public aren’t aware of the exciting noting that commercial fishing is hugely of a keen scuba diver, Hiscock pointed to and diverse marine life to be found around culturally valuable, but may not represent the variety of wreck dives in the area, to the the UK” as significant an economic activity as submerged river gorge at Firestone Bay, and other marine uses. Brands can benefit to the ‘incredibly tropical’ and rare coral life Are marine parks all about public sales and quality of goods, and it may be to be found at the Plymouth Sound drop-off. engagement? worth considering the value of a marine Marine conservation terms, and their park brand for Plymouth – he commented, “Plymouth Sound drop-off is a site of associated acronyms - ‘MSFD’, ‘SAC’, ‘MCZ’, “there’s value in a Marine Park brand”. incredibly tropical-looking, rare and ‘SPA’ – can be confusing and a barrier to scarce coral” public engagement. Beyond this, studies Conclusions have shown the general public is not aware Prof Attrill concluded by stating that The commonly used recreational area out of the exciting and diverse marine life to Plymouth would be the perfect place to of Plymouth, which also hosts charter boat be found around the UK. In comparison test the concept of a marine park: the trips, water sports and dive training, extends to other nations, the UK scores low when surrounding waters already have the most 10 nautical miles out to sea, produces a semi- it comes to how impacted people feel by conservation designations of any marine circular area covering Plymouth Sound and Professor Callum Roberts of the University of environmental issues and how much they area. Plymouth could be the first national all current areas designated for different York presented on the UK Marine Protected prioritise an environmentally conscious park to include a city. forms of protection. This was posited as a Area (MPA) network in an international and lifestyle. Public engagement is also about range for a potential marine park. historical context. He noted the historical social inclusivity: research shows that social His remarks were followed by three further abundance of fish in UK waters, stating that groups engaging with existing national scene-setting presentations from Keith Hiscock also underlined the importance in the 1880s UK fishermen were landing five parks do not reflect the diverse make-up Hiscock, the Marine Biological Association, of education and outreach around times more fish, despite a low-tech, low- of our society. Conversely, the composition Professor Callum Roberts, University of marine conservation. The National Marine power fleet. Correcting for a difference of social groups on beaches around the York, and Mark Robins of Birdwatch Ireland. Aquarium - a window onto the ocean - is an in fishing power - or ‘catch per unit effort’ UK closely matches the national picture. excellent example of this, as is the Wembury (CPUE) - we are now catching 17 times less fish. It is possibly our ‘most socially inclusive Marine Centre, run by Devon Wildlife Trust on He examined current UK marine protection, habitat’. Additionally, the mental health and National Trust property. He spoke of school based on a national commitment to protect wellbeing benefits of visiting the coast are groups including local 11-year-olds who 10% of coastal and marine areas by 2020. increasingly understood - and increasingly have never been to the beach before. This This commitment is now linked to the United compelling. was underscored as something a concerted Nations’ sustainable development goals. A effort around establishing a marine park total of 297 marine protected areas exist, or “Beaches are possibly our most socially could, and should, work to address. He are soon to be implemented, in UK waters. inclusive habitat” introduced the CBD IUCN Category V and This represents 23% of UK seas - enough VI as a possible basis for defining UK Marine to satisfy the UK’s contribution to the UN’s Is it all about the economy? Parks. goal of 10% of the world’s oceans coming The designation of the Jurassic Coast World under protection of some sort. However, Heritage site in is worth an estimated Conclusions: Recreational and educational Prof Roberts questioned the strength of £111 million per year. and Exmoor facilities should play a vital role in public protection this figure represents: referring use economic frames to promote their outreach around a Marine Park and to Prof Attrill’s comment that less than Keith Hiscock highlighted the recreational natural assets. Looking at marine economic are already established and thriving in seven square kilometres is designated as use of the marine environment surrounding activity, Prof Attrill pointed to comparative Plymouth - these should be worked into any ‘no-take’. He suggested this showed a ‘tragic Plymouth. Speaking from the perspective economic benefits of different activities, vision for a wider, cohesive initiative. lack of ambition’.

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“Marine protection around mainland UK and Commonwealth waters are, amongst shows a tragic lack of ambition” Conclusions: The sea is wild and shouldn’t “UK marine parks would connect with the other areas, home to the Great Barrier be micro-managed. It is important to daily lives of millions of citizens” Reef marine park. They saw an historical Prof Roberts highlighted the goals for marine protect whole ecosystems, including mobile increase in protection in 2003: with conservation zones - around ‘maintaining’ species, and to work to restore abundance He described the concept of a ‘bricoleur’ national marine park and sanctuary areas the environment. He argued we should be rather than ‘maintain’ the status quo. The - a French term for a ‘jack of all trades’ designated increasing from 5% to 33%. aiming to re-build the abundance, diversity use of conservation measures to protect or someone who ‘creates using whatever This huge increase was delivered through and complexity of marine ecosystems that biodiversity is vital for the resilience of materials are present’ - as a new way to intergovernmental collaboration to support saw 17 times as many fish being caught, and the oceans in the long term. Marine parks look at management and leadership for a marine parks – with collaboration between many more marine megafauna (like halibut can be hugely beneficial if they offer marine park. What can be developed with commonwealth and state jurisdictions to and skates) present in UK waters. He asserted genuine protection as part of a matrix of the ingredients to hand, and how can we produce ‘world-class marine protected that shifting environmental baselines conservation, alongside sustainable use. develop sustainable practices that would areas’. have led to inadequate conservation Any additional benefit with regards to public secure a lasting legacy for a marine park? and management targets; that we are engagement with the marine environment It was noted that, while ‘zoning schemes’ (ie. ‘institutionalising the degraded state of our would also be highly valuable. Conclusions: A successful marine park rules applied within different types of MPA seas’. He provided two specific examples would ‘unleash the imagination’ - both or conservation zone) are not consistent of this ‘institutionalised’ degradation: the in terms of the concept development across different jurisdictions, generally protection of ‘sands’ in the Dogger Bank and in terms of its eventual reality and in Australia a marine national park, or a Natura 2000 area in the North Sea, ignoring engagement with the public. UK marine marine sanctuary, bans extractive and protection for the wide range of fauna and parks would overcome failings of modern consumptive uses - such as commercial mobile species in the area, and a study statism and connect with the day to fishing - that are present in other zones/ conducted by the University of Bangor into day lives of millions of citizens and their MPAs. Dr Taylor questioned whether this whether scallop dredging should be allowed everyday practices, to generate real, was always the case, given the presence in a Special Area of Conservation (SAC) in sustainable support. of recreational fishing in some marine Wales, which concluded ‘scallop dredging is national parks, but overall felt it was clearly compatible with conservation’. He pointed International Perspectives understood and recognised, including by to flaws in the latter ‘recovery’ study: ‘the the general public, that these ‘high prestige’ experimental study was inside an area that International perspectives provided an conservation areas are strongly protected. had been dredged intensively up to a few insight into how ‘marine parks’ are defined of focused years previously’ (creating a poor baseline) Mark Robins Birdwatch Ireland and viewed across the world. An impactful ‘Save Our Marine Life’ ‘and continuously trawled…Recovery was on the importance of story-telling to campaign in Australia saw the expansion successful conservation projects, and monitored for just four months’. Dr Martin Taylor, of WWF Australia (via live of the marine reserve system continue suggested that the marine park should link) provided a cautionary insight into the throughout 2009-2012. By 2012, roughly seek to ‘do three things well’ - deliver “We are institutionalising the degraded dangers of marine protection becoming one third of marine regions were put three ‘storylines’. He suggested the state of our seas” vulnerable to politics, detailing what was into reserves. Criticism of this expansion necessary creativity, energy and impact described as a ‘largest protected area was immediate, particularly from the required would need those working on New advice from the International Union downgrade in history’ around the Australian fishing industry. There were significant the idea to step beyond ‘statism’ - ie. the for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) on coast. political ramifications: the government standards for MPAs (issued April 2018) states curse of thinking inside the box, and act fell and the new government established imaginatively. they should be ‘conservation focused, with The huge and diverse marine jurisdictions in 2013 immediately suspended the new nature as the priority’. around Australia, which include both State designations, with a policy of ‘no change

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on the water’ until an expert panel review Professor Mark Costello, University of - and were first created by law in 2006. The had been conducted. This panel convened Auckland (via live link), provided context Prof Costello also spoke of the educational French Ministry for the Environment covers in 2014 and provided recommendations for on marine protection from New Zealand. and social impacts of the marine reserve all national parks, both on land and at re-zoning in 2016. In 2017 the government He noted that 44 marine reserves had been system, which international research has sea. There are six marine national parks in issued drafted management and zoning designated around New Zealand since indicated are much greater than anticipated. mainland France, and three overseas. They plans which did not reflect the scientific 1975, resulting in hundreds of thousands Young children with their families and school aim to: recommendations of the panel and of visitors, associated socio-economic groups visit marine reserves for snorkelling included major downgrades for many benefits, behaviour change in some fish trips - he said there was ‘no science needed’ • Create a better understanding of the MPAs. The net result was that over half of species, and research discoveries on the to show how effective the reserve policy has marine environment; marine national parks in the Coral sea were direct and indirect impacts of fishing. been. He also stated that communities ‘love • Provide real protection for the marine downgraded. This faced massive opposition and value’ marine reserves. environment; from conservationists and scientists, but Marine national parks aren’t present in • Support sustainable development of the government proceeded. New Zealand, and all marine reserves are “You don’t need science to prove how maritime activities. strictly ‘no take’. Due to the Marine Reserves effective marine reserves are” “This was the largest protected area Act coming into force in 1971, New Zealand In France, all marine national parks are downgrade in history” offers ‘possibly the longest [tranche of] Conclusions: There is much to learn about situated within Natura 2000 areas and evidence’ for impacts of marine protection. the value of marine reserves and associated follow the EU legislation for uses of these Looking at the downgrade through an Discoveries made as a result of the reserves impacts on the ecosystem from the New sites whereby they must be managed, economic lens, the reduction in protection policy include: Zealand model, even if a different model is conserved and protected in line with Article returned 4 million dollars of fishing value, being considered in Plymouth/UK. 6 of the Habitats Directive. A management versus a projected 28 million dollars of • Reserve areas act as ‘controls’ for plan is developed for each area and this tourism value. commercial and recreational fishing is delivered through a multi-stakeholder grounds outside of reserves; management council, with a voting function “Political pressure and short-term • The indirect impact of fishing on the that ‘must be respected by government’. economic value won over – we must strive ‘trophic cascade’ (chain of predator-prey Gouvray outlined incidences in which this for cross-party political support” species within an ecosystem or area) was ignored, including with regards to a had led to bare, rocky areas grazed by vote on the establishment of a wind farm in Conclusions: Marine protection is difficult urchins. This was thought to be natural, the Marine Park of the of Picardy to manage when it becomes a ‘political but near reserve areas where predators and the Opal Sea, whereby the vote was football’. In Australia, one side of the political like otters and lobsters are restored the taken a number of times until the outcome spectrum is strongly ‘anti’ marine parks, ecosystem recovered and kelp forests was in support of the development. and one side is ‘pro’. It is vital to generate were restored within twenty years; a constituency within extractive industries • Reserves have led to an increased “They are not a real protection tool, but that recognise the benefits of MPAs to abundance and size in both snapper they are better than nothing…will we bridge these gaps. and lobster; always put the economy first?” Providing a perspective from continental • Recent indications suggest non- Europe and French overseas territories, Prof Attrill noted that the definition of commercial fish size is also larger within Gouvary pointed to the fact that many Clare Gouvary from France Natural ‘Marine National Park’ as used in Australia reserve areas. of these multi-stakeholder councils Environment (FNE) explored the use of is distinct from the vision for this term within “We have evidence of shifting do not contain a representative mix of marine national parks in France - where the UK - a pure protection and conservation environmental baselines… fish size is voices: conservation and nature-focused they are one of 15 different MPA categories tool, versus a multi-use marine space. larger within reserve areas” organisations are not well represented in

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comparison to industry, for example. This one large arctic area, Lancaster Sound. Dr leads to disputes over management of the Looking at marine protection, Dr Daborn Daborn highlighted another area, the Bay of parks, and to industrial and recreational noted that 10% of Canada’s marine waters Fundy, where authorities are experimenting activities being commonplace in French must be protected by 2020. A Marine with a community-based approach to marine parks. She noted that there were a Protection Strategy was signed into law management and planning, in order to number of conflicts with fishermen across in 2010, designed to set up a network of ‘get communities in a position to make the nine parks – whilst some of these were protection areas to ‘preserve, connect and decisions about their environment’. He linked to small-scale artisanal fishers recover’ ecosystems. This ‘comprehensive questioned how to maintain the momentum trying to make a living, a number of the network’ reflects the ‘connectivity of the in such initiatives: in order to shift these parks suffered from large-scale industrial marine environment’ and aims to: projects away from the influence of politics, poaching of marine resources. it would be necessary to ‘create a formal “We have a stewardship responsibility organisation or provide legislative rights’. “We believe in this tool [but] it has to be towards a shared ecosystem.” He felt it is important we continue to ‘explore a government priority. It requires time, the political and social licence for marine money, research and the representation of The oldest national park in Canada - the • Recognise the need to accommodate uses’ in this context.’ environmental groups” rocky mountains - was established c1895. global change, including climate change; Dr Graham Daborn, Emeritus Professor at • Ensure sustainability in the long-term; Conclusions: The national marine park Conclusions: Gouvary concluded that Acadia University, noted that terrestrial • Ensure community support, particularly concept is challenged by these experiences: national marine parks have not functioned national parks in Canada are a ‘major with regards to Aboriginal (Inuit and First how, or to what extent, can the power be successfully as a ‘protection tool’ in France. asset’, but often a problem to manage in Nation) peoples. shifted from government to some other It is important to weigh up objectives and keeping with the ecosystem. This is even entity that more fully represents ‘the balance environmental and economic more complex in a marine context, where This strategy sits within a complex people’ or nearby communities? Lessons considerations and ensure one side of Canada has responsibility for 5.7 million political landscape of jurisdictions and can be learned from what has been tried in the argument is not always dominant. kilometres squared of marine environment, responsibilities, spread between three Canada and elsewhere, but to improve on Marine national parks can be an effective and four : the Arctic, Pacific, Atlantic federal departments and, at a more granular these models, and to avoid the pitfalls, will tool if they are a government priority, but and the Great Lakes (which are so large level, between the relevant departments in be a real challenge. they require money, time, research and a they possess ‘ocean characteristics’). The each separate province and territory. This representative mix of voices in their design scale of Canada’s marine environment has resulted in dozens of different types of and management. poses a knowledge problem: scientists are set-aside zones and conservation options. constantly discovering new concepts and facts which were never anticipated, and A recent approach has evolved to look at a environmental pressures are highly variable. varying array of ‘ecoregions’ across Canada This means management is difficult: it to try and manage the strategy under is hard to convince authorities that the ‘large ocean management areas’ - on the available evidence-base is sufficient. terrestrial side, this approach shows slow, incremental improvement for the amount of “‘Between the idea and the reality, conservation coverage nationally. Between the motion and the act falls the shadow’. The shadow is our inability to The recent change of government in meet the expectations of our desires.” (T.S Canada saw marine protection increase Eliot, The Wasteland) from 1% to 7.5% with the designation of

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termism’ - while the big picture may be Plymouth Keynote – Why Plymouth and the huge well-being impact of being by beneficial, fishermen want to know they First? the sea. can reap rewards of a policy - or simply survive financially - for the next five to “We have nuclear submarines, frigates ten years. and battleships coming in and out of the • Mike Williams from Plymouth University harbour. But the [national marine park] described the ‘multi-use platform’ of concept doesn’t mean preservation - it Plymouth Sound and called for input means a mix of use. We have to consider from tourism, defence, commercial and celebrate the heritage we have here… shipping, marine recreational use and Being comfortable with embracing conflict commercial fishing. He spoke of the between multiple uses” importance of multi-sector support and ensuring a marine park doesn’t become Reflecting further on this ‘mix’, Evans a new form of MCZ. Crucially, a marine described the city as the UK’s diving Discussion followed the presentations on park should help speak to, and inform, capital, the UK’s fishing capital and with a international perspectives, this centred society on a range of marine issues. history powered by a sense of exploration, around: adventure and venturing beyond the “A multi-use platform, not a legal straight- Following a morning of scene-setting, with horizon. • How to best engage industry with jacket but a new status, new legitimacy – perspectives from all over the world and a the concept of a marine park? While legally and politically” wide range of definitions for what a ‘Marine He encouraged delegates to reflect on the the definition of a marine park being Park’ could be, Professor Martin Attrill ‘long and glorious’ past of Plymouth, and to considered for Plymouth Sound is • Linking these points to the importance opened the afternoon speaking of a ‘holistic use it to set a course for the city’s future. ‘No different to the stricter conservation of the ‘social licence’ touched on by structure’ for a Marine Park in Plymouth, one one told us we could be Britain’s Ocean city, objectives from many of the international Dr Daborn, Tom Appleby, Blue Marine that could bring a ‘wide range of activities we just told them we were.’ presentations, it is seen as vitally Foundation, spoke of the importance of together’. Continuing on this theme, Tudor important that commercial voices are not constraining society in determining Evans OBE, Plymouth Council Leader, supportive of the initiative and the its own needs by creating a ‘legal delivered a keynote: “A National Park for UK Examples & Potential for UK project doesn’t become a focus for straightjacket’ - the management Plymouth Sound”. National Marine Parks conflict. Comments from the audience system should follow society’s needs. and presenters testified to the need to • Participants were disappointed to note “The sea is in Plymouth’s DNA...I would like understand and respect the motivations The afternoon keynote address was international case studies included to be the first leader of any city anywhere followed by a series of eight, three-minute of different actors within the marine significant examples of failure. Further in the UK that has a national park to its space, and work collaboratively to presentations on marine conservation comments sought to underline the north, a river and a country park to its east and multi-use initiatives around the UK. highlight the benefits of any proposal, importance of health and well-being: and west and a national marine park to its as well as confront any challenges. Tim These were chaired by Dr Steve Simpson, this being a crucial way in which a south” University of Exeter. Glover, Blue Marine Foundation, pointed marine park could contribute to the local to the example of Lyme Bay, where community in Plymouth (and nationally), Evans spoke of the excellent bathing waters fishermen have been instrumental in and part of the vision to be explored around Plymouth, and the importance of establishing and stewarding a marine further. clean beaches and seas to local families. reserve. Dave Cuthbert, a retired He touched on the use of coastal areas as fisherman, spoke of the impact of ‘short outdoor classrooms for Plymouth’s children,

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Rob Spray, from Seasearch, presented a Tom Cameron, University of Essex, Jacob Kean Hammerson, Blue Marine Kerri Whiteside, of Flora and Fauna case study from East Anglia, describing presented on one of the UK’s largest MCZs Foundation presented on conservation International, presented a case study from how the ‘North Sea isn’t fashionable’ – in the Essex Estuaries. This 284-kilometre- work in the Solent, the stretch of water St Abbs and Eyemouth Voluntary Marine seen as lacking what may be commonly squared MCZ was championed by Dr separating and the , Reserve, on the east coast of . considered a charismatic marine seascape. Sarah Allison, working alongside the Essex and the potential for a Marine Park in the She described how the reserve was set up He said the area needed marine protection, Wildlife Trust and oystermen. It is one of area. He noted a number of similarities by local divers in the community in 1984, but to secure this people need to ‘know’ the 10% of MCZs that has a duty to ‘restore’ – between Plymouth and the Solent: both to manage marine use in the area. The North Sea – pointing to the importance of in this case to restore oyster habitats and home to a ‘rich and proud maritime reserve is home to ‘amazing biodiversity’ community engagement with, and indeed populations. Oysters are the central feature heritage’. 1.4 million people live within a ten and ‘charismatic species’ such as the wolf- pride in, their local marine environment. the MCZ focuses on. Challenges faced have minute drive of the Solent and it represents fish. The marine reserve was considered The North Sea is a ‘working sea’ – ‘very included: multi-layer policies that have what was described as a ‘microcosm of UK an important mechanism for giving local multi-use’, and in this context, alongside been difficult to navigate; communication coasts’, with major ports, recreational use, people a say on an environment that is the challenges of engaging the public with problems with government; not enough and fishing industry: ‘all activities compete important to them and their well-being. a different image of a marine ecosystem, data to evidence conservation decisions, for space’. Kean Hammerson noted these he said gaining MPA status was ‘a game and; funding. Cameron noted that there economic uses take place alongside a range “The great thing about the Voluntary with other people in charge of the rules’. was ‘no overarching fund for managing an of conservation designations, including one Marine Reserve is it gives local people a He warned against NGOs engaging in MCZ’, meaning progress was made through Special Area of Conservation (SAC), three mechanism for having their say” local communities where they didn’t have ‘small projects, small amounts of money’. Special Protected Areas (SPA) and a further a long-term presence, risking using local Would an Essex Marine Park help? SAC for birds. Despite these designations, The initiative had just received funding conservationists as ‘lightning conductors’ he commented that the Solent is under- from BLUE and the European Commission in conservation campaigns, rather than “A pre-designated plan for environmental appreciated as a natural environment. A for a new programme of work focused on engaging with them meaningfully. He and societal outcomes, alongside one marine park was seen as a possible tool for interpreting the marine environment in new concluded that initiatives such as Marine formal, funded structure would be good” increasing social and economic cohesion in ways through the use of technology. Parks need to ‘use local pride and reach out the Solent – working alongside military and to normal people’ to build on a genuine local Cameron added a final comment that ‘low industrial uses of the area: reaction to proposals. impact fishing’ should be defined regionally – it would be a negative for Marine Parks if “The Solent could learn a lot from the ‘Use local pride and reach out to normal this wasn’t considered on a case by case direction Plymouth might go in.” people’ basis.

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“Conservation, fisheries, tourism – we have “If we talk about Marine Parks as a all the elements needed. Welcome to the conservation tool, it’s immediately divisive” Jurassic Coast Marine Park” She highlighted a ‘National Park city initiative, which includes the River Thames’ and said lessons could be drawn from the conference: if we could develop the concept ‘as a multi-use platform, it could be a great idea’.

Tim Glover, Blue Marine Foundation opened Amy Pryor provided a perspective from the his presentation on the Lyme Bay Fisheries Thames Partnership, also touching and Conservation Reserve by asking: could on issues of engaging local stakeholders. Lyme Bay be a Marine Park? He described how a statutory closed to mobile, towed gears Niall Benson, Durham Heritage Coast “70% of Londoners don’t know that the had been introduced in 2008. Following this, presented on marine conservation on the Thames is tidal” voluntary conservation measures had been Durham Heritage Coast. He noted the coal- developed through a dedicated working mining history of the area, the previous She spoke of a ‘disconnected public and a group, with fishermen being a central and degradation of the coast line, and the fractured landscape’ as well as ‘policy that vocal part of the reserve’s management importance of connecting a poorly engaged favours economic growth above everything committee. Adaptive management has and deprived local community with else…prioritising the development of the Paul Renfro, Pembrokeshire Coastal Forum, brought benefits to fish, fishermen and the conservation goals, by linking conservation river for trade’. However, experience of spoke of the ‘many designations layered on local community. To support local inshore goals in with their own priorities. He said MCZ consultations in the South-East had top of each other’ with ‘little understanding fishing, a ‘Reserve Seafood’ brand had been participation was ‘absolutely key’. Other shown stakeholders were keen to see of the difference in meaning or rules’ in developed, which has increased the market important strategic tools to developing estuaries designated. The Thames has the his area. He commented on the ‘challenge value of the catch. Glover highlighted an protection measures had been the Heritage ‘biggest eastern fish nursery feeding the of managing multiple activities and educational outreach programme, centred Coast status and a strong management North Sea’, yet protected areas had been designations with no meaningful resource’ on the reserve, that has reached over 6,000 plan – more like a ‘business plan’, focused negotiated downwards, resulting in ‘two and said the central aim was to ‘balance children in 151 schools. He questioned what on action. Under-water imagery provided by small areas, protecting spawning grounds conservation with meeting the needs of would additionally be needed to foster a Seasearch volunteers had given a valuable for just one species’. She spoke of the need the local communities’. Main approaches Marine Park in the area, listing: diving codes, ‘picture of what we have’, supporting local to move beyond traditional terminologies in to achieve this again focused on consistent codes for charter boating, additional tourist engagement. This kind of imagery helped to communicating with different stakeholders stakeholder engagement and careful information along the coast and, crucially, show the value and diversity of ‘seascapes’. – the term ‘conservation’ often leading to communication. Neutral facilitation had sustainable funding in the long-term. He With inspiration from the Lyme Bay reserve conflict with fishermen who would otherwise been used within stakeholder participation concluded, saying: ‘Conservation, fisheries, and funding from the Heritage Lottery Fund, be supportive of species protection to help develop codes of conduct and tourism – we have all the elements needed. plans are in place to extend protection measures. accurate maps of marine use. Seasonal Welcome to the Jurassic Coast Marine measures in the area. restrictions on fishing activity had been Park.’

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agreed, focusing on the positives to come designations or organisations - such as problems to government; struggling was the idea of a ‘hybrid park’, combining out of those restrictions – Renfro felt there the St Abbs and Eyemouth Voluntary to provide enough data to evidence land and the marine environment - in order was an ‘understanding of the common Marine Reserve in Scotland and Wembury decisions; and, crucially, finding access to create ‘ecological enterprise zones’ it was good’ to come from these measures. Buy-in Marine Reserve - where local people to long-term funding. considered that businesses must see they and a sense of ownership had been created are provided with a clear mechanism • Marine parks were seen as a possible have impacts below the water-mark, and through community engagement. through which to have their say. This step towards greater social cohesion view their footprint holistically. It was also helps projects interpret the environment between terrestrial and marine planning remarked that success ‘on the ground’ can “A Marine Park shouldn’t be a point in time, through the eyes of the community, lead to success in attracting funding. it should be able to flex and adapt as things leading to new approaches. change. Keep stakeholders involved the • Projects should seek to tap into local There was agreement that Plymouth is in entire time, they will keep helping you do pride, and reach out to ‘normal people’ an excellent position to ‘hoover up’ ideas good things” to build local momentum. However, and experiences from examples such as we should aim to move away from a those presented. A huge range of different short-term project focus to longer term processes have taken place, nationwide, and governance that encourages local conservation priorities differ enormously stewardship. depending on the characteristics of a region • Partnership and participation in or the needs and types of local species. In developing multi-use management determining the goals of the marine projects plans for marine areas is key - better yet, presented (and others detailed from the management plans can be developed floor) the voice of the community, and as ‘business plans’ to frame work in a Discussion following these presentations engaging with communities in a tailored more action-oriented, policy-friendly focused on access to funding sources. and locally-appropriate manner, continued format which works towards sustainable There was broad agreement that the to be underscored as a high priority. Niall financing. sector is too ‘project-led’, working on an Benson from Durham Heritage Coast • Regular communication between all issue or in an area for a defined, funded highlighted the different priorities and Key points and themes emerging from these stakeholders is vital, as is avoiding any period of time. This helps to entrench focus of a deprived ex-mining community. rapid-fire presentations include: immediately divisive terminology - the kind of short-termism identified as a Tom Cameron, University of Essex, said the including commonly-used terms such weakness amongst stakeholder groups in ‘marine park’ label may not work as well in a • Marine parks could be particularly as ‘conservation’ and ‘no-take zones’ earlier sessions. A number of suggestions ‘muddy and brown’ estuarine environment. valuable in areas where, as in Plymouth (nursery areas?). Neutral facilitation can were raised with regards to funding and Each community and environment to Sound, there are already a number of help to bridge gaps and locate common sustainable investment: a combination of potentially sit within a marine park would conservation designations in place, ground in challenging conversations. central or regional government funding be distinct, with distinct needs. alongside other uses such as commercial • Marine conservation can be linked with private money; a levy on commercial marine traffic and military activities. effectively and impactfully into local marine uses; even an ‘ecological enterprise Presenters: Dr Steve Simpson, University of This could help to reduce confusion and education - such as in the Lyme Bay zone’ approach, where sustainable Exeter (Chair); Jacob Kean Hammerson, the increase public awareness and action reserve, where an outreach programme business investment is encouraged through Solent; Kerri Whiteside, St Abbs; Rob Spray, towards marine conservation. In this has reached 6,000 children in 151 schools. specific incentives. A zone that ‘is proud East Anglia; Tom Cameron, Essex Estuaries; context, marine parks were seen as a • Common challenges linked to marine about enterprise, but proud about the Tim Glover, Lyme Bay; Niall Benson, Durham possible step towards greater social conservation and science in any multi-use environment’, with revenue flow given Heritage Coast; Amy Pryor, Thames Estuary; cohesion. area were: difficulties in aligning multiple preference if it is benefiting or protecting Paul Renfro, Pembrokeshire. • Value is found in other conservation different policies; communicating the environment. Linking to this concept

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“What is the added value of a “If marine parks evolve from communities marine park, in addition to existing like Plymouth it shows we can govern well from a local level” designations?” The initiative could be a proof point for the principle of governance at the right scale that connects people to the sea.

“In a society where it’s not always easy Commentary from the audience further to have a cohesive fabric, there’s a real highlighted the funding issue: ensuring opportunity here” budget is available for communication and outreach would be key. The theme of Natasha Bradshaw, University of the West The concept could speak to new narratives story-telling was re-iterated as a crucial Other panellists reflected on how the of England, summarised her response to around ‘shared prosperity in coastal component to engagement, and one that approach could be seen to promote this as ‘a governance arrangement for communities’. It was cautioned that a clear, would need to be well thought-through and more coherence in planning processes, an ecosystem’, going on to detail how common understanding of the definition of supported with appropriate budget. It was pull together different authorities under issues around engagement with marine a national marine park would be critical, felt that central government investment a common umbrella and aim to reduce conservation are centred on a lack of and that this is potentially something to be in deprived coastal communities should conflict. Dr Simon Cripps, Dorset Wildlife cohesion and a lack of understanding. She determined by the people of Plymouth in the be linked to the marine park/marine Trust, said “you’d get some conflict – pointed to the theme of political power that first instance: they may find that there are conservation agenda - in addressing issues people resist – but one, coherent approach had emerged earlier in the day, saying ‘if aspects of current national park structures of sustainable development, health and is a selling point”. Tom Hooper, Isles of marine parks evolve from communities like and policies that would not meet the needs of wellbeing near the coast it was seen as a Scilly IFCA, noted: ‘in a society where it’s Plymouth it shows we can govern well from their community. Sue Wells, National Trust natural fit to combine the initiatives. This not always easy to have a cohesive fabric, a local level’ said: ‘You need a common understanding of may open up novel central government there’s a real opportunity here’. what you mean by a National Marine Park. funding sources. If Plymouth is going to be the first one, it’s for the Plymouth people to figure out what The Jurassic Coast was again referenced they want’. as a revenue-raiser, where funds had been ploughed into a branding exercise, which has in turn seen significant tourism benefit. This was a model to consider for Plymouth marine park.

At the same time, it was questioned whether greater collaboration between existing

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authorities, funds, stakeholders and other evolve and adapt, and sit beyond political Plymouth Level There was overwhelming support for this organisations such as NGOs couldn’t bridge shifts. proposal. part of the gap when it comes to funding for • Plymouth should define a business marine park projects. Pooling resources was He praised Luke Pollard MP’s openness plan for a marine park, incorporating Tom Appleby closed with the thought that seen as an important avenue to investigate to a cross-party approach to developing achievable objectives and goals; a National Marine Park was for Plymouth to moving forwards. national marine parks, and underscored • Define the different groups that should lead on, and that it was for the assembled the importance of the mandate within be involved and that this development expertise to “help, but not interfere with”. Panellists: Charles Clover, Blue Marine Plymouth for this initiative - it being part would affect; Foundation (Chair); Natasha Bradshaw, of the manifesto upon which Pollard was • Work within existing legislation so that The way ahead – the conference’s University of the West of England; Dr Simon elected. In engaging communities with these this is something that can be enacted recommendations Cripps, Dorset Wildlife Trust; Aisling Lannin, projects, he highlighted the need for trust, now, while there is a public appetite for Marine Management Organisation; Sue energy and creativity, underpinning the marine conservation (fuelled by the drive • Marine parks need to be defined. If Wells, National Trust; Dr Jean-Luc Solandt, emergence of real community stewardship to reduce plastic pollution and media they are to be effective designations, a Marine Conservation Society; Tom Hooper, of the marine environment. It was also such as Blue Planet II). framework is needed. Overwhelming Isles of Scilly IFCA. clear from the presentations that the top- feedback from the conference indicated down approach did not work, and (looking Through further concluding debate and that a neutral, cross-sector Marine at the Australian example) can lead to de- discussion with the audience, led by Charles Parks Steering Committee is needed to Common Themes & Conclusions designation if the public are not sufficiently Clover, a number of joint concluding ideals agree a process for new marine park engaged. He stated that the information and joint statements were delineated. designations. provided by the conference had changed • Each marine park will require principles, his attitude to the Plymouth proposal and objectives, management and business that there was a far stronger case, for “just plans, advisory groups and funding. getting on with it” using the New Zealand • Global experience suggests cross-party (or bricoleur) approach than a process-led and public support for a marine park system. initiative is essential to its success. • Existing government funding for the He provided a summary of take-home socio-economic regeneration of coastal messages at the national level and at the communities should be used to support Plymouth level: the creation of marine parks. • Local and national government, not National Level to mention business, should explore further opportunities for innovation in • Think of the sea as publicly owned space; underwriting longer-term financing for Tom Appleby, Blue Marine Foundation, • This underpins general themes for Clover then requested the participation such projects. provided a summary of the day and good management of that space: of attendees in reflecting on the day’s • The marine parks community should extemporary conclusions. He spoke collaboration, trust and stewardship; proceedings, calling for a vote in the room as meet regularly to analyse results and about the importance of language and • Conservation narratives need to to whether Plymouth should go ahead and inform strategy. communication, and a focus on people be inclusive and broadened out to set-up a National Marine Park using existing as well as nature. He described effective encompass themes of health and legislation, on the basis of appropriate models presented across the day, outlining community well-being. the importance of legislation that is able to public interest and conservation objectives.

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