Marine and Coastal Restoration Plan: strategic environmental assessment post-adoption statement

8 Conclusion

8.1.1 The Scottish Government is content that the level and scope of the SEA is proportionate and provides appropriate evidence to inform the implementation of the Marine and Coastal Restoration Plan.

8.1.2 The assessment process has been a useful and informative tool in assisting in the development of the Plan and for highlighting the associated environmental benefits and potential negative effects. Potential negative effects related to the accidental introduction or spread of INNS, displacement of activities, and modifications to material assets through its implementation are likely to be less than the positive environmental effects realised through an increase in active restoration projects. The Plan will also support the mitigation of any potential negative impacts through reviewing approaches and providing consistent good guidance and advice.

8.1.3 The Scottish Government has published a response to the consultation analysis report^[22]. This outlines that the Scottish Government has not removed or significantly amended the existing objectives and actions which were proposed in the draft Plan but have added one action under Theme 1: Restoration opportunities and priorities. This action is to work with nature conservation advisors to identify potential opportunities for active restoration in areas where measures to manage pressures are in place.

8.1.4 This Post Adoption Statement concludes the SEA process, setting out the ways in which the findings of the SEA Environmental Report and the views expressed during the public consultation have been taken into account in the creation of the final Plan.