The UK Government is poised to launch a public consultation on banning industrial bottom trawling from Marine Protected Areas (MPAs). After years of pressure from campaigners, scientists and sea users, this consultation could finally pave the way for real protection of our most sensitive marine sites.
But let’s be absolutely clear: this is not a done deal. The consultation must succeed. It must show overwhelming, informed support. And it must outmatch the coordinated, well-funded resistance that is already being lined up against it.
Why This Consultation Matters
This is more than a box-ticking exercise. It will shape the legislation that determines:
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Where trawling is banned and where it isn’t
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What gear is included or excluded
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How any ban is enforced and monitored
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Whether inshore waters are considered, or overlooked once again
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If static gear fills the void left behind
This is our chance to not just support a ban, but help draft it right. A weak ban full of loopholes, or one that fails to consider enforcement, will do little to protect our seas or support long-term sustainability.
The Opposition Is Organised, We Need To Be Too
The commercial fishing industry, especially larger operators, are already fighting hard against loss of space to wind farms. This proposal will be painted as yet another threat, and they’ll make their case under the banner of food security, regardless of the long-term ecological cost.
We’re not up against silence, we’re up against strategic, resourced lobbying. If only a few individuals or angling groups respond, we will lose the momentum we’ve fought so hard to build.
Why Individual Responses Matter More Than Petitions
Petitions and copy-paste responses might show numbers, but they don’t change legislation. Civil servants discount them quickly, and in many cases, rightly so.
The most influential responses are:
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Unique
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Thoughtful
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Evidence-backed
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Clear in their personal or organisational stake
They demonstrate real understanding and commitment. And they help shape the law.
Let Us Help You Make Yours Count
We understand not everyone has the time or confidence to write a strong submission. That’s why YourAnglingVoice will be offering to write bespoke consultation responses on your behalf, tailored to your voice, your interests, and your sector:
Private Individuals – From £25
Clubs, Charities, Societies – Email [email protected]
Commercial & Trade Organisations – Email [email protected]
We’ll also publish our own full response online, free to use for inspiration by anyone who wants to write their own.
This Is Our Window, Let’s Not Waste It
This consultation is a rare opportunity. If done right, it can secure:
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Proper protection for MPAs
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A line in the sand for the future of inshore fisheries
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An end to the false promise that MPAs are “protected” while damage continues
But if it’s missed, dismissed, or poorly written – we may not get another chance for years.
We’ll be announcing when the consultation opens. Until then, start thinking about your story, your stake, and your sea.
Together, we can win this, but only if we show up and ensure our voice is heard.
