Major milestone for Allonby Bay Highly Protected Marine Area (HPMA)

Major milestone for Allonby Bay Highly Protected Marine Area (HPMA)
The full recovery of vital ecosystems, habitats and species in a highly protected marine area (HPMA) in the Irish Sea, will be supported more effectively in future as a new Marine Management Organisation (MMO) byelaw comes into effect prohibiting anchoring in Allonby Bay HPMA on 30 July 2026.
In 2023, following a consultation with stakeholders, Allonby Bay HPMA was designated to receive the highest level of protection available for our seas.
The purpose of an HPMA is to protect and allow full recovery of all species and habitats and associated ecosystem processes within a specific area, from the shore to seabed, sea surface and water column.
Allonby Bay HPMA has now gained formal management measures prohibiting anchoring from taking place.
This HPMA covers 28 km2 off the north-western shore of Cumbria. This is an area of significant importance due to its ‘blue carbon’ habitats which capture and store carbon, helping to tackle climate change. The biodiverse subtidal habitats provide a food source for fish species, such as flat fish, and nursery areas for other species. In turn, these fish species attract and sustain various bird species which will also benefit from protection when present in the site.
Marine Minister Emma Hardy said:
“This is a proud milestone in our mission to protect one of England’s most important marine environments.
“Allonby Bay Highly Protected Marine Area’s anchoring byelaw will help ensure that these important blue carbon habitats and the wildlife they support have the opportunity to recover, thrive and continue delivering benefits for people, nature and future generations.”
By prohibiting anchoring in this area, MMO will reduce the pressures on the site, improve the state of our seas, address biodiversity loss, and support a more climate resilient marine ecosystem that will deliver benefits for society.”
Nick Greenwood, MMO Head of Marine Protection and Operations Services, said:
“With an anchoring byelaw now in place for Allonby Bay HPMA, we have passed a significant next step towards supporting the full recovery of its associated ecosystem. This will play an important role over the long term in wider ocean recovery, enhancing fish populations, habitats and sustainable use of the sea.’’
Updates to this page
-
Image update
-
First published.