Nature And Landscape

The one and only Allonby Bay - England's first inshore Highly Protected Marine Area

Allonby Bay is the first inshore Highly Protected Marine Area (HPMA) in England. We will bring together the local community to understand and celebrate the HPMA; leading to effective protection of important habitats and a revived sense of place, community and economy. Local concerns about the designation will be addressed, and businesses and fishermen will have a clearer idea of how they can use the HPMA to improve their business. Through volunteer sessions and training courses, we will create a pool of skilled citizen scientists to help us bring life back to our seascape. We will see a significant increase in the number of local volunteers and marine champions, resulting in increased confidence and potential in community groups. Our project will create positive change for people and the marine environment across North West Cumbria, and open the door for future HPMA designations across the country.