Principles for identifying and selecting compensatory marine protected areas
Principles that set out how government will identify and select potential MPAs to compensate for the effects of offshore wind development on seabed habitats.
Applies to England
Documents
Details
Defra has committed to designating compensatory marine protected areas (MPAs) in Secretary of State waters to deliver sufficient strategic compensation for likely environmental effects of certain offshore wind developments on the seabed. This includes Northern Ireland offshore waters, however no compensatory MPAs will be proposed there. The devolved governments are separately considering compensation measures for their waters. For further information read the Marine licensing: Definitions guidance.
Collaborative discussions between Defra and devolved governments are ongoing and the UK government is committed to delivering its clean power mission across the UK.
These principles set out the overarching policy, social, economic and ecological factors that will influence how government will identify and select the compensatory MPAs.
MPA designation is a detailed process which includes gathering evidence and consulting with affected industries and communities as appropriate. Decisions on sites, including locations, will be made by ministers.