Clyde Seasonal Closure 2026: consultation analysis and SG response

2. Introduction

Since 2002, a seasonal closure has been implemented in the Firth of Clyde between 14 February and 30 April each year to protect spawning cod. Initially, the closure was implemented annually through Scottish Statutory Instruments (SSIs), and from 2009 onwards on a biennial basis. The original closure areas were identified using a combination of scientific surveys and the knowledge of active fishers, covering two adjoining sea areas.

For many years, exemptions were permitted for Nephrops trawlers, creel vessels, and scallop dredgers, on the basis that these gears were thought to have minimal cod bycatch. However, scientific advice later suggested that any activity within 10 metres of the seabed had the potential to disturb spawning cod. In response, exemptions were removed in 2022, creating a complete prohibition of fishing activity within the closure area during the spawning season. At the same time, the closure area was refined to focus protection on harder seabed substrates, such as coarse sand and gravel, reducing the restricted area by around 28% compared to previous years. This adjustment aimed to maximise ecological benefit while minimising unnecessary socio‑economic disruption.

Despite these measures, survey data remain sparse and show limited signs of recovery in Clyde cod stocks. Survey data collected in 2023 and 2024 encountered cod in very low numbers both inside and outside the closure area, raising questions about the overall effectiveness of the closure. Research has also shown that cod populations in the Clyde are now concentrated in fewer locations than in the past ^[1], and that Nephrops trawl fisheries regularly catch cod as bycatch, which may be contributing to localised declines. These findings highlight the ongoing challenge of achieving effective conservation while minimising socio‑economic impacts and underlines the need for improved evidence and adaptive management approaches.

The consultation launched in July 2025 invited views on the future of the Clyde cod seasonal closure from 2026.^[2] Respondents were asked to consider whether the current closure design remains effective and fair, whether it should be extended via SSI until 2028, whether a three-year Targeted Scientific Programme (TSP) should be undertaken to improve the evidence base, and whether the Scottish Government should return to the 2002–2022 measures with exemptions. Respondents were also invited to provide views on alternative or complementary management measures and on the balance between environmental protection and socioeconomic outcomes.

The consultation responses complement, but do not replace, scientific advice and statutory duties. Findings are interpreted proportionately, recognising the small sample size and ensuring that descriptors such as “majority” or “plurality” are used consistently. Taken together, the results show that respondents are not opposed to conservation itself, but emphasise the need for evidence-led, fair, and adaptive management. These findings will inform decisions on targeting, timing, exemptions, and collaboration, with a transparent rationale guiding the Scottish Government’s next steps.