oldharry
Well-known member
They are! The MCZs I mean.... One is already in place on the Wight Barfleur reef off the Needles, and 5 more are planned between Needles Fairway and Portland Bill alone. BORG has been watching it carefully via the DWG and FS, the only two likely to affect us are Poole Bay with Studland, and one extending inshore round the Arish Mell area of the ranges which would include Mupes Bay and Worbarrow Tout anchorages, which is earmarked as a possible 'reference area' where all human activity on the seabed would be barred. We made sure they are clearly marked as 'important anchorages' on the maps being produced for the decision makers.
At least 5 more areas round the Isle Of Wight are being considered, some of which could affect Solent sailors quite seriously. Balanced Seas are not so forthcoming about their plans, but there could be quite serious problems for us in parts of both the East and West Solent. They are due to produce their latest repoort at the end of this month, when hopefully we shall know more. The rest are offshore and would only affect you if you are trawling potting or dredging. The whole thing is still under discussion, and no firm decisions have been made about anything - yet.
