Regulation under the Dredging Permission Procedure

Government control of marine aggregate dredging has historically been exercised through the dredging permission procedure, currently administered by the Marine and Fisheries Agency (MFA). With the introduction of Environmental Impact Assessment and Habitats (Extraction of Minerals by Marine Dredging) Regulations, applications for the extraction of marine minerals operate under statutory procedures administered by MMO in England, NIEA in Northern Ireland, the Welsh Assembly Government and the Scottish Executive, as appropriate. Each application – for a dredging permission – will involve the undertaking of an environmental impact assessment and extensive consultation with the fishing industry, relevant government bodies and the general public.

Further information

England - Marine Management Organisation

Northern Ireland - DoE(NI)

Scotland - Scottish Executive

Wales - Welsh Assembly Government