Photo by Ian Cylkowski
The Marine Management Organisation (MMO) has granted marine licences for several pioneering projects aimed at protecting and enhancing England’s marine environment. The approved initiatives range from habitat restoration and biodiversity enhancement to renewable energy development and critical infrastructure upgrades.
New habitat structures to boost biodiversity in Teesside
The Tees Rivers Charitable Trust received approval to install up to 18 dock wall fittings known as vertipools, and up to three modular floating islands within Middlehaven Dock, near Middlesbrough. The vertipools, each capable of storing 1.5 litres of intertidal seawater, will provide increased habitat space for invertebrates, while the floating islands, constructed from coconut fibre mats and planted with a variety of native freshwater and halophyte species, will offer refuge and breeding grounds for juvenile fish and aquatic organisms. Additionally, these islands will serve as feeding and roosting sites for local birdlife.
The MMO’s Habitat Regulations Assessment and consultation process ensured the project meets environmental standards. Upon completion, the initiative is expected to significantly enhance local biodiversity and serve as an educational platform for young ecologists and community members, fostering a stronger connection with nature.
Expansion of floating offshore wind demonstration project
Wave Hub Limited’s application to increase the capacity of the Twin Hub Floating Offshore Wind Demonstration Project from 32MW to 40MW, and to extend the project’s operational period until January 2037, was also approved. This adjustment provides greater flexibility and longevity for the floating wind farm, reflecting the ambition to match or exceed the lifespan of traditional fixed-bottom offshore wind installations.
The MMO’s marine licensing team worked closely with stakeholders throughout the process, enabling swift application processing and ensuring the project complies with all regulatory requirements.
Woodside ferry terminal upgrade to enhance transport access
Mersey Travel Limited obtained a licence to replace the Woodside ferry terminal in Merseyside, a historic transport hub dating back to the 13th century. The redevelopment will include removal of the existing linking bridge and installation of monopile foundations to support a new landing area designed to serve the community for the next 25 years.
To minimise environmental impact, particularly to local bird populations during sensitive seasons, the MMO imposed conditions including a cold weather working ban. The upgraded terminal aims to improve accessibility for both residents and tourists, bolstering the region’s transport infrastructure.
Greatham Marsh restoration to revive natural intertidal habitats
The Greatham Marsh Restoration project, led by BAM Nuttall contractors, focuses on removing a tidal barrier maintained by the Environment Agency to restore intertidal habitats near Greatham Village. This work is part of the broader Tees Tidelands programme, which seeks to reinstate natural estuarine processes by reconnecting tributaries to tidal flows, enhancing fish passage and promoting habitat migration in response to rising sea levels.
The MMO’s ongoing support during the application process has been crucial, allowing adjustments and additional information submission to meet regulatory standards.