Consultation on methodology for assessing navigation safety risk of aquaculture sites
Read the full outcome
Detail of outcome
The Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) received responses from 20 consultees on the draft Marine Guidance Note (MGN) for aquaculture navigation risk assessments (NRAs). The majority welcomed the intention to improve regulation and safety in this area, with many confirming it was fit for purpose and provided sufficient guidance for completing an NRA.
Consultees raised a number of areas for improvement, including concerns about duplication of existing licensing requirements, the suitability of the offshore renewable energy framework as a comparator, and the lack of clear review timelines. Proportionality, monitoring, decommissioning obligations, and better notification for recreational users were also highlighted as gaps.
The MCA has responded constructively to the feedback, committing to review site marking requirements, to improve the accessibility of the guidance for smaller operators, and to refine the document’s structure and proportionality. The MCA confirmed that streamlining the NRA process remains central to the guidance, with further stakeholder engagement planned as development continues.
Original consultation
Consultation description
The placement of fin/shellfish and seaweed/algal farms in UK waters has the potential to affect shipping, safety, the freedom of navigation, and emergency response. This guidance has been produced to assist marine licence applicants in preparing their Navigation Risk Assessment and emergency response arrangements for all types of fin/shellfish and seaweed/algal farms.
Background
Where a marine licence is required for a marine licensable activity (including but not limited to construction, deposit, and removals at sea), the marine licence application must be supported by a proportionate Navigation Risk Assessment (NRA) to determine the extent of the ‘interference with other legitimate uses of the sea’ as per relevant legislation. To support the fin/shellfish farm and seaweed/algal industries, the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) in consultation with interested parties, has produced guidance in the form of draft Marine Guidance Note 687 (M+F) on the key aspects to be considered on a case-by-case basis which is proportionate to the scale of the works. Its intention is to help the industry provide a useful and effective assessment of risk to avoid any delays during the formal marine licence application stage.
Related Content - MGN 654 - Offshore renewable energy installations OREI safety response
Documents
Updates to this page
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Methodology for assessing navigation safety risk of aquaculture sites (MGN 687) - Consultation outcome report added.
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First published.