The SSMEI Pilots
The Shetland SSMEI pilot is developing a Marine Spatial Plan to create a more integrated and robust framework for wider marine planning and management in Shetland. It is also ensuring that communities understand and participate more effectively in decision making. The Interim draft plan was published in January 2009 and is now into the implementation period. A final version is expected last this year.
The Clyde SSMEI pilot is aimed at the development and delivery of more integrated and sustainable management of the marine and coastal areas of the Firth of Clyde. This will be achieved through an effective and integrated stakeholder - regulator partnership, the development of a Marine Spatial Plan, together with improved decision support mechanisms and integrated decision making. The draft Marine Spatial Plan for the Firth of Clyde was issued for consultation on 31 March 2009.
The Sound of Mull SSMEI pilot aims to encourage more integrated and sustainable management of the marine and coastal areas of the Sound of Mull through the preparation and implementation of a Marine Spatial Plan. The plan is locally orientated and is being developed in conjunction with a purposefully established working group that brings together representatives of users and regulators of the area. The draft Marine Spatial Plan for the Sound of Mull will be developed fully during the course of 2009.
The Berwickshire Coast SSMEI pilot focused primarily on the socio-economic benefits of a high quality marine environment on the local economy through work packages addressing fisheries, integrated harbour and visitor management. This pilot completed in April 2009 and will publish a final report detailing the key achievements over the past 3 years shortly.