Plans unveiled to further protect Scotland’s marine habitats

VIEWS are being sought on plans to further protect Scotland’s marine habitats.

As much as ten per cent of the country’s marine habitats have been earmarked for a particular designation of protection.

Says the Scottish Government (here), which has launched a consultation on the plans: “Highly Protected Marine Areas are designed to provide the highest environmental protection from activities such as fishing and aquaculture, as well as infrastructure developments such as new ports, harbours and offshore wind farms.”

The announcement adds: “Scottish Ministers have also announced their intention to permanently designate the Red Rocks and Longay Marine Protected Area (MPA) within the Inner Sounds of Skye – the largest nursery area for the critically-endangered flapper skate.”

The consultation closes on March 20, here.

Picture credit: Place Design Scotland