A BID to create a marine park covering more than a third of Jersey’s territorial waters has been rejected.
States Members voted against Economic Development Minister Lyndon Farnham’s plans to protect around 900km2 from bottom trawling and dredging, on the first day of the Bridging Island Plan debate.
Senator Farnham’s proposal was supported by the majority of respondents to a poll commissioned by the Blue Marine Foundation and the National Trust for Jersey, with the minister calling it a ‘once in a generation opportunity’.
However, Members raised concerns regarding the fishing industry and the use of planning policy for fisheries management. They instead back a proposal from Environment Minister John Young for a ‘marine spatial plan’ to create a network of protected areas, which will be developed before 2025.
Any changes are subject to final approval by Members later this month.
VOTE:
27 against, 11 for Senator Farnham’s amendment.
40 for Deputy Young’s amendment, one against, (Constable John Le Bailly).
