Fishers, coastal communities and marine businesses are being asked to help shape new rules governing more than 160 protected areas across Scotland’s inshore waters.
The Scottish Government has launched a consultation on proposed fisheries management measures for Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) and Priority Marine Feature (PMF) management areas.
The proposals are intended to protect important marine habitats and species while supporting sustainable fisheries and coastal economies. The consultation will run until January 18, 2027, with 26 in-person drop-in events around Scotland and 17 online sessions planned.
Agriculture, Marine and Islands Minister Jim Fairlie said: “Fishing is woven into the identity of so much of Scotland, sustaining families for generations, building local economies, and shaping the rhythm of life in our coastal communities. We know that any change to how our seas are managed touches something deeper than policy: it touches people's homes, their traditions, and their sense of place.
“Our seas are a shared resource, and protecting them properly means looking after fish stocks, habitats and the long-term future of the very industries that rely on healthy marine environments. Healthy seas are not separate from a healthy fishing industry, they are the foundation of it.”
Mr Fairlie said the proposals followed more than 120 meetings with the fishing industry, environmental organisations, coastal communities, local authorities and other stakeholders over the past four years.
He added: “Given the scale and complexity of the proposals, covering more than 160 sites and areas across Scotland’s inshore waters, the consultation has been extended beyond the standard duration and will run until January next year and I urge everyone with an interest to take part and help shape the future of our marine environment.”