Medway Estuary rMCZ

The Government is proposing to designate around 10,900 km2 of marine habitat in the first phase next year. The Medway Estuary is one of 31 sites that have been proposed for designation in 2013 as a Marine Conservation Zone (rMCZ).

Intertidal sand and muddy sand, and sub-tidal mud are identified for designation in 2013, but conservation objectives include the maintenance of peat and clay exposures and intertidal mixed sediments, and the recovery of sheltered muddy gravels. The Association owns some of the designated areas.

The only species of conservation importance is the Tentacled Lagoon Worm (Alkmaria romijni), but these have not been found on our land.

It is also noted that the Medway might be one of the most suitable areas for eel recovery in the future. Nursery grounds for bass, plaice, sole and cod, and skate and smelt occur here. The estuary is also home to salmon, sea trout, and the Thames herring, and contains an important site for seal foraging and a colony of Sandwich tern at Burntwick Island.

One policy option will impact on commercial fisheries activities; mainly bottom trawls and dredges.

Recreational human activities are not negatively affected. By which, we believe that wildfowling, angling and boating activities will still be allowed. However, the Government is running a consultation until 31 March 2013, and things may change.

The consultation can be found here:
http://www.defra.gov.uk/consult/2012/12/13/marine-conservation-zones-1212/

The final reports from the Regional MCZ Projects can be viewed here: http://publications.naturalengland.org.uk/publication/2080291

Sites proposed for designation in 2013 including maps can be found in Part 1 - Balanced Seas http://www.defra.gov.uk/consult/files/mcz-annex-a1-part1-121213.pdf

Annex I2 Direct impacts arising from individual rMCZs (Option 2)
Read pages 291 - 312 for the Medway Estuary

Read the latest DEFRA Report to Parliament on the Marine Protected Areas Network

How to respond
Please send responses to either: mcz@defra.gsi.gov.uk
or
MCZ Team,
c/o Post Room
Nobel House
17 Smith Square
London
SW1P 3JR
Responses should be received by midnight on 31 March 2013.