Photo by Zoltan Tasi
In June 2025 the UK Government launched announced a major plan to ban bottom trawling in 41 Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) across English waters.
The consultation will close on 29th September, after a four-week extension was announced, and in recent weeks the debate over the proposed ban is being keenly discussed.
Support from environmental organisations
Environmental organisations welcomed the consultation and have been encouraging members of the public to respond. The Wildlife Trusts recently published a poll indicating strong public backing for restrictions, with 81% of respondents supporting a ban on bottom trawling and dredging in protected areas.
Craig Bennett, Chief Executive of The Wildlife Trusts, said:
“We urge the government to take notice of the public’s desire to stop destructive fishing in protected areas, and ensure MPAs actually provide the protection their name suggests.”
The charity has also called the consultation a “once-in-a-generation opportunity” and is urging individuals to submit responses before the deadline.
Fishing sector voice strong concerns
Fishing industry groups have expressed concern over the proposals. A joint statement from fishing sector representatives in the UK, France, Belgium and the Netherlands described the proposed restrictions as “flawed, disproportionate and politically driven.”
They argue that further limiting access to MPAs could negatively impact coastal economies, and say that current fisheries management already includes environmental safeguards. Some stakeholders believe that effective marine protection can be achieved without blanket bans on gear.
There are also concerns over the potential displacement of fishing activity and the implications for fleet viability, particularly in areas heavily reliant on demersal fisheries.
John Worthington, a 59-year-old commercial fisherman from Fleetwood, Lancashire, warned the ban could threaten his livelihood, saying, “If they go ahead with this, it will force me to fish out of my area and I’ll be 20 miles out. That is too far for a small boat like mine, it isn’t safe.”
Next steps
The consultation is part of the UK’s Marine Protected Area Management Measures Programme. The MMO is taking a four stage approach to managing fishing in MPAs. This current consultation is stage three of that process which targets protection for all designated seabed features not addressed in earlier stages.
Responses are currently being invited from all interested parties with the consultation deadline on 29th September 2025.