Photo by William Hook

The Marine Management Organisation (MMO) has begun work to improve its Catch Recording App and web service, following technical issues that have affected the submission of catch records, particularly through the mobile app. The upgraded service has been revised from the ground up to provide a more reliable and resilient platform. Although the underlying technology will be significantly improved, the MMO says the new application will keep a familiar look and feel for fishermen and other users.

The regulator describes the work as part of its commitment to delivering digital services that support compliance, sustainable fisheries management and the needs of the fishing industry. It says the new platform will also provide a stronger foundation for future enhancements.

Michael Coyle, the MMO’s Acting Director of Digital, Analysis and Regulatory Reform, acknowledged the problems users have faced. “We recognise the impact that technical issues with the current Catch Recording service have had on users and understand the importance of providing a dependable digital service,” he said. “Following extensive work to identify a solution, we are now improving the application and web service to create a more robust and reliable platform. This investment will help ensure we can better meet the needs of users now and support future improvements in the years ahead.”

Early stages

Development of the service is still at an early stage. Existing requests for enhancements and additional functionality will not form part of the initial improvement programme. The MMO says those requests remain under consideration and will be reviewed and prioritised as part of future development work.

Peter Clark, the MMO’s Director of Operations, underlined why a dependable service matters for both industry and regulators. “Catch recording plays a vital role in fisheries management and it is essential that industry can rely on the services that support these reporting requirements,” he said. “We will continue to engage with stakeholders and keep industry informed as development progresses.”

The MMO will share industry updates as key milestones are reached. Stakeholders with questions or feedback can contact the team at catchrecording@marinemanagement.org.uk.