MP Bob Seely has hosted environment minister Therese Coffey to discuss proposed Marine Conservation Zones on the Island with interested organisations.
A 75km square site at Bembridge and a 16km square stretch from Yarmouth to Cowes are part of Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs’ plan to set up 41 ‘blue belt’ sites in the third tranche of zones.
The minister met Bob alongside representatives from Yarmouth and elsewhere to discuss the zones at the Royal Solent Yacht Club. Prior to this Therese had meetings with Red Funnel.
Bob said:
“We need to support the environment but also ensure that the Island’s sailing economy continues to prosper and it was good of the minister to come over and listen to organisations and people who are concerned about what will happen to their livelihoods if the MCZ from Yarmouth to Cowes is given the go-ahead.
“Many thanks to Sue Hawley, Tim Adams, Tom Symes, Anna Kyle, Malcolm Thorpe and Steve Cowley for attending the meeting.
“It was also great to see the minister during recess.”
