Marine industries continue to be generally supportive of the concept of net gain, both in the intertidal and marine environments, however, to maintain this support it is essential that net gain is delivered in such a way that secures the best environmental outcomes with the least bureaucracy and burdensome regulatory processes for developers. The introduction of net gain will be one of the biggest changes to consenting developments in the UK for over a decade, and there is great potential to contribute to significant improvements in our rapidly declining natural environment, but there is also a considerable risk, that if administered badly, it will create a legislative nightmare for potential projects, stifling development and restricting marine industries growth by making certain projects unviable.
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With support from OWEC, the SUDG has worked with The Crown Estate, eNGOs, government and SNCBs to develop strategic targets for delivering net gain both in the intertidal and marine environments, and these should form the basis for establishing a net gain delivery approach.
The final report presents a robust set of suggested strategic targets for MNG, which have strong consensus and agreement from all sectors; industry, regulators and conservation bodies. The targets set a clear direction for how developments could contribute towards MNG to restore and improve the marine environment, linked to national strategic priorities.
The Government set up an independent review panel under teh chairmanship of Richard Benyon to examine teh need for HPMAs and to make recommendations. SUDG chair, Peter Barham, was on the panel along with Benj Sykes, co-chair of the Offshore Wind Industry Council. SUDG and OWIC have responded positively to the report and the recommendations which show that conservation and industry can work together as long as there is clear science, clear management and clear enforcement of HPMAs
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