PART of the North Pembrokeshire coast line stretching up to the Llyn Peninsula, in North Wales including Ceredigion is set to become part of a new special area of conservation aimed at protecting harbour porpoises following a proposal from Natural Resources Wales (NRW)
The land known as the West Wales Marine site, is one of six main areas being put across as parts of the country to protect to ensure the survival of a range of species.
A report released by the NRW said: “The proposals to create six new marine protected areas come after NRW and other conservation agencies across the UK spent several years studying a number of species and where they spend their time.”
As part of the proposal, potential restrictions on some activities in the site could be put in place, but the report stated it is difficult to say at this stage exactly what action needs to be taken.
The report has however said: “The West Wales Marine site has been selected primarily on the basis of its long-term, preferential use by harbour porpoise in contrast to other areas of the UK portion of the Irish Sea.
“The implication is that the site provides good foraging habitat and it may also be used for breeding and calving.
“For that reason, the intent of this objective is to minimise the risk posed by activities within the site to the species viability.
“Activities that kill, injure or significantly disturb harbour porpoise have the potential to affect species viability within the site.”
These plans will join the Welsh coast with other parts of Europe already protecting their wildlife in an effort for sustainability: “Along with other European countries, Wales already has a series of Special Areas of Conservation (SACs) and Special Protection Areas (SPAs) on land and sea, and the proposed new areas will add to this network, called Natura 2000, which aims to conserve biodiversity right across the EU.”
Ceri Davies, the executive director for knowledge, strategy and planning for NRW, said: “These sites are not just valuable for wildlife, they also include some of Wales’ most beautiful and valued seascapes.
“They attract thousands of visitors every year and enhance the quality of life for the people who live in and near them.
“And Wales’ existing network of marine SACs and SPAs are also used for a variety of activities, including shipping, energy, fisheries and recreational activities.
“We work with all users of the marine environment to find ways that allow sustainable use of the sea, while protecting important parts of the environment.”
The proposal has been welcomed by wildlife groups who have said it is an important step in providing greater protection to marine animals and birds.
Scott Fryer, a Wildlife Trusts Wales officer said: “This is an important step towards Wales’s contribution to helping protect a range of sites for protected animals in Wales as part of the larger UK network.”
“The Wildlife Trusts in Wales are pleased that NRW recognises how essential it is to create special areas for marine wildlife. We must protect our seas so that they can continue to provide benefits for wildlife and for future generations to enjoy.”
“This is good news. Harbour porpoise are our smallest mammal so they tend to get overlooked compared to the larger dolphins. As they mostly live around the coast these sites are essential.” Added Gill Bell, the chair of the Wales Environment Link and a member of the Marine Conservation Society.
The NRW will be running their consultation until April 19, when a final decision on whether to implement the proposals will be made by the Minister for Natural Resources in the Welsh Government.
Add Comment