Planning Scotland's Seas: 2013 - The Scottish Marine Protected Area Project – Developing the Evidence Base for Impact Assessments and the Sustainability Appraisal Final Report - Appendix E - Marine Site Reports

This is Appendix E for the pMPA Impact and Sustainability Report containing the detailed site by site reports. Published separately due to size.


North-west sea lochs and Summer Isles ( NWS)

Site Area (km 2): 612

Site Summary

Table 1. Summary of Proposed Protected Features, Data Confidence and Conservation Objectives [ NWS]
Proposed protected features
Biodiversity Features
Burrowed mud, flame shell beds, kelp and seaweed communities on sublittoral sediments, maerl beds, maerl or coarse shell gravel with burrowing sea cucumbers, native oysters, northern feather star aggregations on mixed substrata, circalittoral muddy sand communities.

Geodiversity Features
Quaternary of Scotland - glaciated channels/troughs, megascale glacial lineations, moraines; Submarine Mass Movement - slide scars; Seabed Fluid and Gas Seep - pockmarks; Marine Geomorphology of the Scottish Shelf Seabed - banks of unknown substrate.

Site Description
The North-west sea lochs and Summer Isles MPA proposal covers a series of sea lochs, bays and nearshore islands on the north-west coast of Scotland. The boundary covers a classic glacial landscape and the geodiversity features hold valuable information on Scotland's glacial past.
Summary of confidence in presence, extent and condition of proposed protected features and conservation objectives
Proposed Protected Feature Estimated Area of Feature (by scenario) (km 2) Confidence in
Feature Presence
Confidence in
Feature Extent
Confidence in
Feature Condition
Conservation Objective and Risk
Biodiversity Features
Burrowed mud *Lower: 306.50
Intermediate: 611.68
Upper: 611.68
Yes ( SNH survey, 1995) Partial - age of data Not known Conserve
Flame shell beds Lower: 0.07
Intermediate: 0.18
Upper: 0.18
Yes ( SNH survey, 2010) Yes Not known Conserve
Kelp and seaweed communities on sublittoral sediments Lower: 89.73
Intermediate: 164.40
Upper: 164.40
Yes (surveys in 1989 & 1996) Partial - age of data Not known Conserve
Maerl beds Lower: 1.58
Intermediate: 1.58
Upper: 142.23
Yes ( SNH survey, 2010) Partial - requires validation Not known Recover
Maerl or coarse shell gravel with burrowing sea cucumbers Lower: 1.58
Intermediate: 1.58
Upper: 142.23
Yes No - requires validation Not known Conserve
Native oysters Lower: 0.0004
Intermediate: 0.0004
Upper: 0.0004
Yes (records in 1978, 1984 & 2010) Partial - age of data Not known Conserve
Northern feather star aggregations on mixed substrata Lower: 0.06
Intermediate: 0.06
Upper: 16.40
Yes ( SNH survey, 2010) Yes Not known Conserve
Circalittoral muddy sand communities Lower: 164.52
Intermediate: 201.82
Upper: 201.82
Yes ( SNH survey, 2010) Partial Not known Conserve
Geodiversity Features
Quaternary of Scotland - glaciated channels/troughs, megascale glacial lineations, moraines Glaciated channels/troughs: 20.72
Megascale Glacial Lineations: 19.33
Moraines: 50.46
Yes (Defra-led research, 2009; SNH & JNCC review, 2012) Yes Not known
Submarine Mass Movement - slide scars 3.15 Yes (Defra-led research, 2009; SNH & JNCC review, 2012) Yes Not known
Seabed Fluid and Gas Seep - pockmarks 0.02 Yes (Defra-led research, 2009; SNH & JNCC review, 2012) Yes Not known
Marine Geomorphology of the Scottish Shelf Seabed - banks of unknown substrate 1.04 Yes (Defra-led research, 2009; SNH & JNCC review, 2012) Yes Not known
Key: * Estimated area based on best available data
References:
Area of Feature: GeMs
Confidence in feature presence and extent: SNH (2012j)

Summary of Costs and Benefits

Table 2a. Site-Specific Economic Costs on Human Activities arising from the Designation and Management of the Site as an MPA (present value of total costs over 2014 to 2033 inclusive) [ NWS]
Human Activity Cost Impact on Activity
Lower Estimate (£Million) Intermediate Estimate (£Million) Upper Estimate (£Million)
Quantified Economic Costs (Discounted)
Aquaculture (Finfish) 0.005 0.021 0.021
Aquaculture (Shellfish) See national costs See national costs See national costs
Commercial Fisheries* 0.000 1.558 3.117
Energy Generation 0.009 2.173 2.308
Military See national costs See national costs See national costs
Ports and Harbours 0.032 0.037 0.037
Total Quantified Economic Costs 0.046 3.790 5.483
Non-Quantified Economic Costs
Aquaculture (Finfish)
  • Possible costs associated with potential future development; and
  • Costs of project delays during consenting; risk of deterrent to investment
  • Possible costs associated with potential future development; and
  • Costs of project delays during consenting; risk of deterrent to investment
  • Possible costs associated with potential future development; and
  • Costs of project delays during consenting; risk of deterrent to investment
Aquaculture (Shellfish)
  • Possible costs associated with potential future development; and
  • Costs of project delays during consenting; risk of deterrent to investment
  • Possible costs associated with potential future development; and
  • Costs of project delays during consenting; risk of deterrent to investment
  • Possible costs associated with potential future development; and
  • Costs of project delays during consenting; risk of deterrent to investment
Commercial Fisheries
  • None.
  • Displacement impacts.
  • Displacement impacts.
Energy Generation
  • Costs of project delays during consenting; risk of deterrent to investment.
  • Costs of project delays during consenting; risk of deterrent to investment.
  • Costs of project delays during consenting; risk of deterrent to investment.
Military
  • See national assessment.
  • See national assessment.
  • See national assessment.
Ports and Harbours
  • Relocation of anchorages/ mooring areas away from features of high sensitivity; and
  • Costs of project delays during consenting; risk of deterrent to investment.
  • Relocation of anchorages/ mooring areas away from features of high and medium sensitivity; and
  • Costs of project delays during consenting; risk of deterrent to investment.
  • Relocation of anchorages/ mooring areas away from features of high and medium sensitivity; and
  • Costs of project delays during consenting; risk of deterrent to investment.
Recreational Boating
  • Cost of anchorage/mooring relocation.
  • Cost of anchorage/mooring relocation.
  • Cost of anchorage/mooring relocation.
Note: For detailed information on economic cost impacts on activities, see Table 4.
* These estimates (present value of total change in GVA) assume zero displacement of fishing activity and hence are likely to overestimate the costs.
Table 2b. Site-Specific Public Sector Costs arising from the Designation and Management of the Site as an MPA (over 2014 to 2033 inclusive) [ NWS]
Description Public Sector Costs
Lower Estimate (£Million) Intermediate Estimate (£Million) Upper Estimate (£Million)
Quantified Public Sector Costs (Discounted)
Preparation of Marine Management Schemes 0.024 0.024 0.024
Preparation of Statutory Instruments None 0.004 0.004
Development of voluntary measures National assessment National assessment National assessment
Site monitoring National assessment National assessment National assessment
Compliance and enforcement National assessment National assessment National assessment
Promotion of public understanding National assessment National assessment National assessment
Regulatory and advisory costs associated with licensing decisions 0.002* 0.002* 0.002*
Total Quantified Public Sector Costs 0.027 0.031 0.031
Non-Quantified Public Sector Costs
None identified.
* Regulatory and advisory costs of finfish and shellfish aquaculture assessed at national level.
Table 2c. Summary of Social Impacts and Distribution of Quantified Impacts arising from the Designation and Management of the Site as an MPA (over 2014 to 2033 inclusive) [ NWS]
Key Areas of Social Impact Description Scale of Expected Impact across Scenarios, Average (mean no. of jobs affected) Distributional Analysis
Location Fishing Groups Predominantly Affected Social Groups Affected
Region Port Rural/ Urban/ Island Gear Types Most Affected Vessels most affected Crofters Ethnic minorities With disability or long term sick
Employment with consequent impacts on: Health, Crime, Environment, and Culture and Heritage Commercial fisheries - Loss of jobs (direct and indirect) Lower: 0 jobs
Intermediate: 3 jobs
Upper: 6 jobs
North west
North west
West
North east
North
North
West
North east
Ullapool
Stornoway
Campbeltown
Buckie
Kirkwall
Scrabster
Oban Peterhead
Impacts concentrated in urban, rural and island coastal areas Nephrops trawls Dredges Lower: N/A
Upper: >15m
No Impact. No breakdown of fisherman employment by ethnic origin. No employment data but unlikely to be employed in fisheries.
If any energy generation developments do not proceed as a result of designation (due to additional costs, project delays, loss of investor confidence), there may be significant social impacts due to job losses (non-quantified).
Note: For detailed information on socio-economic impacts by sector, see Table 7a. For more detailed information on distributional impacts of quantified costs by sector see Tables 7b and 7c.
Table 2d. Site-Specific Benefits arising from the Designation and Management of the Site as an MPA (over 2014 to 2033 inclusive) [ NWS]
Benefit Description
Ecosystem Services Benefits (Moderate and High Benefits) Relevance Scale of Benefits
Fish for human consumption High. The site provides supporting services, including contribution to food webs and nursery habitats. Nil - Moderate
Fish for non-human consumption
Non-use value of natural environment Moderate - High. Variety of protected features and contribution of the site to MPA network has non-use values. Nil - Moderate
Recreation Moderate - High. Including active dive sites, angling and recreational boating routes. Low - Moderate
Other Benefits
Tourism Higher biodiversity due to designation, and presence of designations, may attract more tourism activity to local economy.
Contribution to ecologically coherent network See report Section 7.5.
Note: For detailed information on ecosystem services benefits, see Tables 9 and 10. For detailed information on other benefits, see Table 5 (activities that would benefit) and Table 8 (contribution to ecologically-coherent network).

Summary of Overlaps and Interactions between Proposed Designated Features and Human Activities

Table 3. Overlaps and Potential Interactions between Features and Activities under different Scenarios, indicating need for Assessment of Cost Impacts on Human Activities from Designation of the Site as an MPA [ NWS]
Aggregates Aquaculture (Finfish) Aquaculture (Shellfish) Aviation Carbon Capture & Storage Coastal Protection Commercial Fisheries Energy Generation Military Activities Oil & Gas Ports & Harbours Power Interconnectors Recreational Boating Shipping Telecom Cables Tourism Water Sports
Biodiversity Features
Burrowed mud - L/I/U L/I/U - - - L/ I/U L/ I/ U L/I/U - L/ I/ U L/I/U U - - L/I/U L/I/U
Flame shell beds - - - - - - L/ I/U L/ I/ U L/I/U - - L/I/U L/I/U - - L/I/U L/I/U
Kelp and seaweed communities on sublittoral sediments - L/I/U L/I/U - - - L/I/ U L/ I/ U L/I/U - L/ I/ U L/I/U L/I/U - - L/I/U L/I/U
Maerl beds - U L/I/U - - - L/ I/U L/ I/ U L/I/U - L/ I/ U U L/I - - L/I/U L/I/U
Maerl or coarse shell gravel with burrowing sea cucumbers - U L/I/U - - - L/ I/U L/ I/ U L/I/U - L/ I/ U U - - - L/I/U L/I/U
Native oysters - - - - - - L/ I/U - L/I/U - - - L/I - - L/I/U L/I/U
Northern feather star aggregations on mixed substrata - - U - - - L/ I/U U L/I/U - - U - - - L/I/U L/I/U
Circalittoral muddy sand communities - L/I/U I/U - - - L/ I/U L/ I/ U L/I/U - L/ I/ U L/I/U U - - L/I/U L/I/U
Geodiversity Features
Quaternary of Scotland - glaciated channels/troughs Not considered to be sensitive at the levels of exposure expected from human activities; thus, not considered in the context of management.
Quaternary of Scotland - megascale glacial lineations
Quaternary of Scotland - moraines
Submarine Mass Movement - slide scars
Seabed Fluid and Gas Seep - pockmarks
Marine Geomorphology of the Scottish Shelf Seabed - banks of unknown substrate
Note: L = Lower Scenario; I = Intermediate Scenario; U = Upper Scenario. Normal font indicates that there is an overlap between the activity and proposed designated feature under that scenario, bold indicates that the overlap results in a potential interaction between the activity and proposed designated feature that has resulted in cost impacts under that scenario.
For detail of management measures assessed under each scenario for each activity, and results of the cost estimates, see Table 4.

Human Activity Summaries

Human activities that would be impacted by designation of the site as an MPA

Table 4a. Aquaculture (Finfish) [ NWS]

There are seven finfish farms (Ardessie A, Ardessie B, Ardmair, Corry Farm, Fada, Isle Ewe and Tanera) within the boundary of the NWS proposed MPA. All sites, apart from Fada, directly overlap with the Burrow Mud feature under all scenarios. Fada directly overlaps with Burrowed Mud under the intermediate and upper scenarios only.

Ardessie A, Ardmair and Isle Ewe directly overlap with the Circalittoral muddy sand communities under all scenarios. In addition, Ardessie B and Fada are within 1km of this feature under all scenarios. Corry Farm and Isle Ewe are within 1km of this feature in the intermediate and upper scenarios.

Three sites, Fada, Isle Ewe and Tanera, directly overlap with the Maerl beds and Maerl or coarse shell gravel with burrowing sea cucumbers features under the upper scenario. In addition, Fada and Tanera are within 1km of the features under all scenarios. Ardmair and Isle of Eweare are within 1km of the features in the upper scenario.

Ardessie A, Ardessie B, Corry Farm and Isle Ewe directly overlap with the feature sublittoral kelp and seaweed communities on sediment under all scenarios and Fada and Tanera directly overlaps under the intermediate and upper scenarios only. Ardessie A, Ardessie B, Corry Farm, Fada and Isle Ewe are within 1km of the feature under all scenarios and Ardmasir and Tanera are within 1km of the feature under the intermediate and upper scenarios only.

There is no public information on potential future development within the proposed MPA. In the absence of infomation on potential future developments, the assessment has focused on the costs associated with obtaining new CAR licences. A national assessment of the costs of obtaining planning permission for new developments is provided separately.

Economic Costs on the Activity of Designation of the Site as an MPA
Lower Estimate Intermediate Estimate Upper Estimate
Assumptions for cost impacts
  • Additional assessment costs for new CAR licence applications to assess impacts to MPA features.
  • Additional assessment costs for new CAR licence applications to assess impacts to MPA features; and
  • Additional survey costs incurred once every 10 years (2019 & 2029) to inform new CAR licence applications.
  • Additional assessment costs for new CAR licence applications to assess impacts to MPA features; and
  • Additional survey costs incurred once every 10 years (2019 & 2029) to inform new CAR licence applications.
Description of one-off costs
  • Additional assessment costs for CAR licence once every 10 years (2019, 2029) of £500 per CAR licence application.
  • Additional assessment costs for CAR licence once every 10 years (2019, 2029) of £500 per CAR licence application; and
  • Additional baseline visual survey costs -£1.6k per CAR licence application
  • Additional assessment costs for CAR licence once every 10 years (2019, 2029) of £500 per CAR licence application; and
  • Additional baseline visual survey costs -£1.6k per CAR licence application
Description of recurring costs
  • None.
  • None.
  • None.
Description of non-quantified costs
  • Possible costs associated with potential future development. A national assessment of additional assessment and survey costs for potential future development is provided separately; and
  • Costs of project delays during consenting; risk of deterrent to investment.
  • Possible costs associated with potential future development. A national assessment of additional assessment and survey costs for potential future development is provided separately; and
  • Costs of project delays during consenting; risk of deterrent to investment.
  • Possible costs associated with potential future development. A national assessment of additional assessment and survey costs for potential future development is provided separately; and
  • Costs of project delays during consenting; risk of deterrent to investment.
Quantified Costs on the Activity of Designation of the Site as an MPA (£Million)
Total costs (2014-2033) 0.007 0.029 0.029
Average annual costs <0.001 0.001 0.001
Present value of total costs (2014-2033) 0.005 0.021 0.021
Total costs = Sum of one-off costs and recurring costs for the site summed over the 20 year period.
Average annual costs = Total costs divided by the total number of years under analysis ( i.e. 20).
Present value of total costs = Total costs discounted to their current value, using a discount rate of 3.5%.
Table 4b. Aquaculture (Shellfish) [ NWS]

There are two shellfish farms (Loch Ewe and Loch Kanaird) within the boundary of the NWS proposed MPA.

Loch Ewe directly overlaps with Burrowed Mud under all scenarios. Loch Kanaird directly overlaps with this feature under the intermediate and upper scenarios only. Both sites are within 1km of this feature under all scenarios. . There is an additional shellfish farm (Badluarach) within 1km of the proposed MPA boundary which is within 1km of the Burrowed Mud feature under all scenarios.

Loch Ewe and Loch Kanaird directly overlap with the Maerl Bed and Maerl or coarse shell gravel with burrowing sea cucumber features under the upper scenario. There is an additional shellfish farm (Badluarach) within 1km of the proposed MPA boundary which is within 1km of the features under all scenarios.

Loch Ewe directly overlaps with the Sublittoral kelp and seaweed communities on sediment under all scenarios. Loch Kanaird directly overlaps with this feature under the intermediate and upper scenarios only. Loch Ewe is within 1km of the feature under all scenarios. Loch Kanaird overlaps with this feature under the intermediate and upper scenarios. . There is an additional shellfish farm (Badluarach) within 1km of the proposed MPA boundary which is within 1km of this feature under all scenarios.

Badluarach is within 1km of Circalittoral muddy sand communities under intermediate and upper scenarios and Loch Ewe for all scenarios respectively.

Badluarach is also located within 1km of the Northern feather star aggregation feature under the upper scenario.

There is no public information on potential future development within the proposed MPA. In the absence of infomation on potential future developments, no site specific assessment has been possible. A national assessment of the costs of obtaining planning permission for new developments is provided separately.

Economic Costs on the Activity of Designation of the Site as an MPA
Lower Estimate Intermediate Estimate Upper Estimate
Assumptions for cost impacts
  • N/A
  • N/A
  • N/A
Description of one-off costs
  • N/A
  • N/A
  • N/A
Description of recurring costs
  • N/A
  • N/A
  • N/A
Description of non-quantified costs
  • Possible costs associated with potential future development. A national assessment of additional assessment and survey costs for potential future development is provided separately; and
  • Costs of project delays during consenting; risk of deterrent to investment.
  • Possible costs associated with potential future development. A national assessment of additional assessment and survey costs for potential future development is provided separately; and
  • Costs of project delays during consenting; risk of deterrent to investment.
  • Possible costs associated with potential future development. A national assessment of additional assessment and survey costs for potential future development is provided separately; and
  • Costs of project delays during consenting; risk of deterrent to investment.
Quantified Costs on the Activity of Designation of the Site as an MPA (£Million)
Total costs (2014-2033) See national costs See national costs See national costs
Average annual costs See national costs See national costs See national costs
Present value of total costs (2014-2033) See national costs See national costs See national costs
Total costs = Sum of one-off costs and recurring costs for the site summed over the 20 year period.
Average annual costs = Total costs divided by the total number of years under analysis ( i.e. 20).
Present value of total costs = Total costs discounted to their current value, using a discount rate of 3.5%.
Table 4c. Commercial Fisheries (assuming zero displacement of fishing activity) [ NWS]

According to VMS-based estimates and ICES rectangle landings statistics, Nephrops trawls, dredges, whitefish trawls, lines and other gears (over-15m), and other gears, nephrops trawls and dredges (under-15m) operate within the NWS proposed MPA. The value of catches from the NWS area was £380,000 (over-15m vessels) and £510,500 (under-15m vessels, indicated from ICES rectangle landings data) (annual average for 2007-2011, 2012 prices). Landings from the over-15m vessels were predominantly into Lochinver (28% by value), and Ullapool (35%). For the over-15m fleet, nephrops trawlers operated in particular in the western part of the proposed MPA and across areas of burrowed mud. There was also dredger activity in the central area in areas of circalittoral muddy sand communities.

Provisional ScotMap data indicate that the annual average earnings from the NWS proposed MPA was £996,200, with 65% of this from nephrops pots and 19% from nephrops trawls. The spatial distribution of value from nephrops trawls indicates that the majority of value in the NWS proposed MPA and surrounding area is derived from close to the shore. ScotMap data would indicate an annual cost impact of around £0.19 million on <15m nephrops trawls under the Upper Scenario, the estimate from ICES rectangle data may be a slight under-estimate. However, ScotMap data indicate no dredge activity within the NWS area, therefore the estimated impact on dredges from ICES rectangle data is likely to be an over-estimate. The coverage for ScotMap interviews in the region was 71.9% (total value of reported landings from the Fisheries Information Network for those vessels included in the ScotMap value analysis expressed as a percentage of the total reported landings for all vessels <15m). Therefore the ScotMap estimate is likely to under-represent the value of fishing by under-15m vessels, and the spatial representation of the value of fishing is less robust than in regions where coverage is higher.

VMS data indicate that there were 12 non- UK vessels within the NWS proposed MPA (3 French, 3 Irish, 3 Spanish, 2 German and 1 Norwegian), but these vessels will not have been actively fishing within the proposed MPA, which is within 6nm, and are more likely to have been transiting to Ullapool port.

Management measures for the scenarios have been developed based on the sensitivity and vulnerability of the features to the pressures caused by different gear types and SNH recommendations. No cost impacts are anticipated under the lower scenario because the features that would be protected (flame shell beds, maerl beds and native oysters) cover very small areas in which trawling and dredging are unlikely to be taking place.

Unlike most other sectors, the potential cost of designation on commercial fisheries is a loss or displacement of current (and future) output, caused by restrictions on fishing activities. Any decrease in output will, all else being equal, reduce the Gross Value Added ( GVA) generated by the sector and have knock-on effects on the GVA generated by those industries that supply commercial fishing vessels. The costs estimates for this sector have therefore been estimated in terms of GVA.

GVA estimates have been generated by applying fleet segment-specific 'GVA/total income' ratios to the value of landings affected. The GVA ratios have been calculated using data on total income and GVA from the Sea Fish Industry Authority Multi-year Fleet Economic Performance Dataset (published March 2013). Further details on the GVA ratios and the methodology for estimating GVA and employment impacts applied are presented in Appendix C7.

It is important to note that all costs presented below assume that all affected landings are lost, that is, there is no displacement of fishing activity to alternative fishing grounds. In reality, some displacement is likely to occur and hence the cost, GVA and employment impacts presented in this table are likely to overestimate the costs.

Economic Costs on the Activity of Designation of the Site as an MPA
Lower Estimate Intermediate Estimate Upper Estimate
Assumptions for cost impacts
  • No cost impacts expected.
  • Reduce mobile bottom-contact gear (whitefish, nephrops and other trawls and seines, beam trawls and dredges) pressure by 50% across burrowed mud feature (full extent of MPA);
  • Closure to hand collection of native oyster across feature extent; and
  • Limit further expansion of static gears.
  • Closure to mobile bottom-contact gears (whitefish, nephrops and other trawls and seines, beam trawls and dredges) across full extent of MPA; and
  • Limit further expansion of static gears.
Description of one-off costs
  • None.
  • None.
  • None.
Description of recurring costs
  • None.
  • Loss of >15m fishing income (annual values, £ million, 2012 prices):
  • Nephrops trawls (0.156);
  • Dredges (0.026);
  • Other affected gears (0.006).
  • Loss of <15m fishing income (annual values, £ million, 2012 prices):
  • Nephrops trawls (0.067);
  • Dredges (0.001);
  • Other affected gears (0.001).
  • Loss of >15m fishing income (annual values, £ million, 2012 prices):
  • Nephrops trawls (0.313);
  • Dredges (0.052);
  • Other affected gears (0.012).
  • Loss of <15m fishing income (annual values, £ million, 2012 prices):
  • Nephrops trawls (0.133);
  • Dredges (0.002);
  • Other affected gears (0.001).
Description of non-quantified costs
  • None.
  • Displacement effects, including conflict with other fishing vessels, environmental impacts in targeting new areas, longer steaming times and increased fuel costs, changes in costs and earnings, gear development and adaptation costs, and additional quota costs.
  • Displacement effects, including conflict with other fishing vessels, environmental impacts in targeting new areas, longer steaming times and increased fuel costs, changes in costs and earnings, gear development and adaptation costs, and additional quota costs.
Quantified Costs on the Activity of Designation of the Site as an MPA (£Million)
Total costs (2014-2033) 0.000 5.141 10.282
Average annual costs 0.000 0.257 0.514
Present value of total costs (2014-2033) 0.000 3.781 7.562
Economic Impacts (£Million)
Total change in GVA (2014-2033) 0.000 2.116 4.238
Average annual change to GVA 0.000 0.106 0.212
Present value of total change in GVA (2014-2033) 0.000 1.558 3.117
Direct and Indirect reduction in Employment 0.0 jobs 2.9 jobs 5.9 jobs
Total costs = Sum of one-off costs and recurring costs for the site summed over the 20 year period.
Average annual costs = Total costs divided by the total number of years under analysis ( i.e. 20).
Present value of total costs = Total costs discounted to their current value, using a discount rate of 3.5%.
Total change in GVA (2014-2033) = The change in direct GVA in the sector for the site summed over the 20 year period.
Average annual change to GVA = Total change in direct GVA in the sector for the site divided by the total number of years under analysis ( i.e. 20).
Present value of total change in GVA (2014-2033) = Total change in direct GVA in the sector for the site discounted to current value, using a discount rate of 3.5%.
Direct and Indirect reduction in Employment = The average (mean) reduction in direct employment in the sector plus the indirect reduction in employment on the sector's suppliers.
Table 4d. Energy Generation [ NWS]

There are no energy generation activities currently operating within the NWS proposed MPA boundary or corresponding buffer zones. Thus, economic costs and management measures associated with energy generation in this proposed MPA are described in light of known possible future developments.

Within the NWS proposed MPA boundary, one potential future export cable route for a wave energy Area of Search (AoS) could overlap the MPA features burrowed mud, circalittoral muddy sand communities, flame shell beds, sublittoral kelp and seaweed communities on sediment, maerl beds, maerl or coarse shell gravel with burrowing sea cucumbers and northern feather star aggregations on mixed substrata under all scenarios ( i.e. lower, intermediate and upper extent), with the exception of northern feather star aggregations on mixed substrata which only overlaps this energy generation activity under the upper scenario.

The MPA feature burrowed mud is sensitive to permanent change of one marine habitat type to another (through changes in substratum) and physical damage to species living on or within the seabed. Therefore, it is possible that mitigation costs could be incurred.

Economic Costs on the Activity of Designation of the Site as an MPA
Lower Estimate Intermediate Estimate Upper Estimate
Assumptions for cost impacts
  • Additional licensing costs to assess potential impacts to all MPA features within 1km of proposed activities.
  • Additional licensing costs to assess potential impacts to all MPA features within 1km of proposed activities.
  • Additional survey costs incurred to inform new licence applications; and
  • Re-routing of cables.
  • Additional licensing costs to assess potential impacts to all MPA features within 1km of proposed activities;
  • Additional survey costs incurred to inform new licence applications;
  • Re-routing of cables; and
  • Additional post-licence monitoring of any features within 1km of development footprint in year 3 following construction.
Description of one-off costs
  • Additional assessment costs for licence application - £12k. Application estimated for submission in 2024 (wave energy AoS export cable route).
  • Additional assessment costs for licence application - £12k. Application estimated for submission in 2024 (wave energy AoS export cable route);
  • Additional survey costs - £5k per linear km of development (45km); and
  • Re-routeing of cable (2026) - £1.01m per km (burrowed mud, 10% of 30km = 3km).
  • Additional assessment costs for licence application - £12k. Application estimated for submission in 2024 (wave energy AoS export cable route);
  • Additional survey costs - £5k per linear km of development (45km);
  • Re-routeing of cable (2026) - £1.01m per km (burrowed mud, 10% of 30km = 3km); and
  • Additional post-licence monitoring costs - £5k per linear km of development in year 3 following construction (45km).
Description of recurring costs
  • None.
  • None.
  • None.
Description of non-quantified costs
  • Costs of project delays during consenting; risk of deterrent to investment.
  • Costs of project delays during consenting; risk of deterrent to investment.
  • Costs of project delays during consenting; risk of deterrent to investment.
Quantified Costs on the Activity of Designation of the Site as an MPA (£Million)
Total costs (2014-2033) 0.012 3.267 3.492
Average annual costs 0.001 0.163 0.175
Present value of total costs (2014-2033) 0.009 2.173 2.308
Total costs = Sum of one-off costs and recurring costs for the site summed over the 20 year period.
Average annual costs = Total costs divided by the total number of years under analysis ( i.e. 20).
Present value of total costs = Total costs discounted to their current value, using a discount rate of 3.5%.
Table 4e. Military [ NWS]

One coastal military location (Loch Ewe fuel jetty) overlaps with the NWS proposed MPA. The Loch Ewe fuel jetty overlaps with sublittoral kelp and seaweed communities on sediment (all scenarios). The Loch Ewe fuel jetty also overlaps with burrowed mud (intermediate and upper scenarios), maerl beds (upper scenario) and maerl or coarse shell gravel with burrowing sea cucumbers (upper scenario).

Nine military practice areas (Ewe (X5813) and Minch South (X5814), and seven submarine exercise areas) overlap with the NWS proposed MPA.

The two military practice areas Ewe (X5813) and Minch South (X5814) overlap with the burrowed mud feature (all scenarios). In addition the military practice area Ewe (X5813) overlaps with circalittoral muddy sand communities (all scenarios), flame shell beds (all scenarios), maerl beds (all scenarios), maerl or coarse shell gravel with burrowing sea cucumbers (all scenarios), Northern feather star aggregations on mixed substrata (all scenarios) and sublittoral kelp and seaweed communities on sediment (all scenarios).

The seven submarine exercise areas overlap with the features of the NWS proposed MPA to varying degrees under the different extent scenarios. In addition, one submarine exercise area overlaps with native oyster (all scenarios).

The features and associated habitats which overlap with military activities have not been described as vulnerable to MoD activities in this proposed MPA. It is assumed that management relating to MoD activity will be coordinated through the MoD's Maritime Environmental Sustainability Appraisal Tool ( MESAT) which the MoD uses to assist in meeting its environmental obligations. This process will include operational guidance to reduce significant impacts of military activities on MPAs. It is assumed that the MoD will incur additional costs in adjusting MESAT and other MoD environmental assessment tools in order to consider whether its activities will impact on the conservation objectives of MPAs and also incur additional costs in adjusting electronic charts to consider MPAs. However, these costs will be incurred at national level and hence no site-specific cost assessments have been made.

Economic Costs on the Activity of Designation of the Site as an MPA
Lower Estimate Intermediate Estimate Upper Estimate
Assumptions for cost impacts
  • See National Assessment.
  • See National Assessment.
  • See National Assessment.
Description of one-off costs
Description of recurring costs
Description of non-quantified costs
Quantified Costs on the Activity of Designation of the Site as an MPA (£Million)
Total costs (2014-2033) See national costs See national costs See national costs
Average annual costs See national costs See national costs See national costs
Present value of total costs (2014-2033) See national costs See national costs See national costs
Total costs = Sum of one-off costs and recurring costs for the site summed over the 20 year period.
Average annual costs = Total costs divided by the total number of years under analysis ( i.e. 20).
Present value of total costs = Total costs discounted to their current value, using a discount rate of 3.5%.
Table 4f. Ports and Harbours NWS

There are five ports/harbours (Achiltibuie, Gruinard, Rhu Coigach, Ullapool and Poolewe) within the NWS proposed MPA boundary. All five ports/harbours overlap the MPA feature burrow mud under all scenarios within the 1km buffer. In addition to burrowed mud, all five ports/harbours overlap sublittoral kelp and seaweed communities on sediment under all scenarios, with the exception of Achiltibuie (intermediate and upper only). Three of these ports/harbours overlap circalittoral muddy sand communities (Achiltibuie, Gruinard and Rhu Coigach). Rhu Coigach (all scenarios), Achiltibuie, Gruinard, and Poolewe (upper scenario only) overlap maerl beds (and maerl or coarse shell gravel with burrowing sea cucumbers). Therefore, management costs may be incurred under the assumption that small ports/harbours will undergo one new development within the relevant time frame (2014-2033), assumed for the year 2024.

There are two anchorages/mooring areas within the NWS proposed MPA boundary. Both anchorages/mooring areas overlap the MPA feature burrowed mud under the intermediate and upper scenarios, with one of the two also overlapping burrowed mud under the lower scenario as well. Costs may be expected to relocate anchorages/mooring areas to less sensitive areas, although any associated costs are non-quantifiable.

There is one small active disposal site (approximately 500m 3 per dredge) within the NWS proposed MPA boundary associated with the port/harbour Ullapool. The disposal site overlaps the MPA feature burrowed mud under all scenarios. Therefore, management costs may be incurred under the assumption that a disposal licence will be applied for every ten years within the relevant time frame (2014-2033). Given that the most recent application is being submitted in 2013, it is assumed that future licence application will occur in the years 2023 and 2033.

Economic Costs on the Activity of Designation of the Site as an MPA
Lower Estimate Intermediate Estimate Upper Estimate
Assumptions for cost impacts
  • Additional licensing costs for small port developments (up to 7 in total); and
  • Relocate anchorages/mooring areas away from all features with a high sensitivity.
  • Additional licensing costs for small port developments (up to 7 in total); and
  • Relocate anchorages/mooring areas away from all features with a high or medium sensitivity. If not possible to relocate away from medium-sensitivity features, relocate to more representative areas.
  • Additional licensing costs for small port developments (up to 7 in total); and
  • Relocate anchorages/mooring areas away from all features with a high or medium sensitivity. If not possible to relocate away from medium-sensitivity features, relocate to more representative areas.
Description of one-off costs
  • Additional assessment costs for licence application - £6.75k per licence application. Application estimated for submission in 2024 (Achiltibuie, Gruinard, Rhu Coigach, Ullapool and Poolewe).
  • Additional assessment costs for licence application - £6.75k per licence application. Application estimated for submission in 2024 (Achiltibuie, Gruinard, Rhu Coigach, Ullapool and Poolewe).
  • Additional assessment costs for licence application - £6.75k per licence application. Application estimated for submission in 2024 (Achiltibuie, Gruinard, Rhu Coigach, Ullapool and Poolewe).
Description of recurring costs
  • Additional assessment costs for disposal site licence application - £6.75k per licence application. Application estimated for submission in 2023 and 2033 (Ullapool disposal site).
  • Additional assessment costs for disposal site licence application - £6.75k per licence application. Application estimated for submission in 2023 and 2033 (Ullapool disposal site).
  • Additional assessment costs for disposal site licence application - £6.75k per licence application. Application estimated for submission in 2023 and 2033 (Ullapool disposal site).
Description of non-quantified costs
  • Relocation of anchorages/mooring areas away from features of high sensitivity; and
  • Costs of project delays during consenting; risk of deterrent to investment.
  • Relocation of anchorages/mooring areas away from features of high and medium sensitivity; and
  • Costs of project delays during consenting; risk of deterrent to investment.
  • Relocation of anchorages/mooring areas away from features of high and medium sensitivity; and
  • Costs of project delays during consenting; risk of deterrent to investment.
Quantified Costs on the Activity of Designation of the Site as an MPA (£Million)
Total costs (2014-2033) 0.047 0.047 0.047
Average annual costs 0.002 0.002

0.002

Present value of total costs (2014-2033) 0.032 0.032 0.032
Total costs = Sum of one-off costs and recurring costs for the site summed over the 20 year period.
Average annual costs = Total costs divided by the total number of years under analysis ( i.e. 20).
Present value of total costs = Total costs discounted to their current value, using a discount rate of 3.5%.
Table 4g. Recreational Boating [ NWS]

There are five cruising routes for recreational boating that intersect the NWS proposed MPA; three light traffic and two medium traffic, although vessels transiting these cruising routes are not assessed as requiring any additional management measures.

Under the upper scenario, there are 27 recreational boating anchorages (and associated 100m buffer zones) that overlap with features proposed for protection within the MPA proposal boundary. Twenty anchorages overlap with kelp and seaweed communities, one overlaps with flame shell beds and six overlap with burrowed mud. Also under the upper scenario are four Crown Estate mooring points and two mooring areas. One additional mooring point lies within one of the mooring areas, although it is expected that this is an underestimate and that additional mooring points are present within the mooring areas that are not represented by the data. The Crown Estate moorings overlap with burrowed mud, circalittoral muddy sand communities, sublittoral kelp and seaweed communities, maerl beds, maerl or coarse shell gravel with burrowing sea cucumbers, flame shell beds and northern feather star aggregations on mixed substrata.

Under the intermediate and lower scenarios, SNH have identified four recreational anchorages that overlap with proposed protected features and one mooring area owned by The Crown Estate. One anchorage in Loch Ewe overlaps with kelp and seaweed communities and native oyster point data records. An anchorage in Loch Broom overlaps with flameshell bed records; one in the 100m zone and two in the 200m zone. Another anchorage in Loch Broom overlaps with flameshell bed point records and kelp and seaweed communities in the 200m zone. Also of note in Loch Broom are clustered flameshell beds around the area. At Tanera Beg, Summer Isles, one anchorage overlaps with a point record of kelp and seaweed communities and a polygon record of maerl beds within 200m.

There is uncertainty as to the exact location of The Crown Estate's mooring within the MPA proposal area and therefore the degree of interaction with proposed protected features. Of most concern is the concentration of flame shell beds in the narrows of Loch Broom.

Economic Costs on the Activity of Designation of the Site as an MPA
Lower Estimate Intermediate Estimate Upper Estimate
Assumptions for cost impacts
  • No additional management required for Ob na Ba Ruaidhe, (Loch Ewe), Isle of Ewe and Tanera Beg. Sensitivity of kelp and seaweed communities on sublittoral sediment to surface abrasion is low. The maerl bed at Tanera Beg is further north and away from bay where anchoring would occur so don't believe there would be actual overlap between anchoring and feature; and
  • Relocate anchorages/moorings away from the narrows of Loch Broom due to overlap with flameshell beds. If not possible to relocate away from feature, relocate to less sensitive or more representative area.
  • No additional management required for Ob na Ba Ruaidhe, (Loch Ewe), Isle of Ewe and Tanera Beg. Sensitivity of kelp and seaweed communities on sublittoral sediment to surface abrasion is low. The maerl bed at Tanera Beg is further north and away from bay where anchoring would occur so don't believe there would be actual overlap between anchoring and feature; and
  • Relocate anchorages/moorings away from the narrows of Loch Broom due to overlap with flameshell beds. If not possible to relocate away from feature, relocate to less sensitive or more representative area.
  • Relocate all anchorages/moorings away from all features with a high or medium sensitivity to surface abrasion pressure associated with anchoring: flame shell beds; maerl beds; maerl or coarse shell gravel with burrowing sea cucumbers; northern feather star aggregations; burrowed mud. If not possible to relocate away from features, relocate to less sensitive or more representative area.
Description of one-off costs
  • None.
  • None.
  • None.
Description of recurring costs
  • None.
  • None.
  • None.
Description of non-quantified costs
  • Cost of anchorage/mooring relocation.
  • Cost of anchorage/mooring relocation.
  • Cost of anchorage/mooring relocation.

Human activities that would benefit from designation of the site as an MPA

Table 5. Human Activities that would Benefit from Designation of the Site as an MPA [ NWS]
Activity Description Lower Estimate Intermediate Estimate Upper Estimate
Tourism Coastal areas are well represented when considering the locations of various tourist related sites within Scotland with a range of site types present in all regions including the North West. Where significant impacts to recreational boating or water sports have been identified for the site, there could also be consequential impacts on tourism. Tourism may benefit from the designation of the MPA as an added attraction to the destination. In addition, there may also be indirect benefits to tourism as a result of benefits to some water sports activities, for example, recreational angling and diving. The intermediate management measures applied to sector activities will result in an increase of the beneficial impacts seen in the lower estimate. The upper management measures applied to sector activities will result in an increase of the beneficial impacts seen in the lower and intermediate estimates.
Water Sports - Scuba Diving There are four dive locations which overlap with the NWS proposed MPA, one shore dive location (Badentarbet pier) and three wreck dive sites (Fairweather V, Innisjura and Jambo). All locations, apart from Jambo, overlap with 'Burrowed Mud' under all scenarios, whereas Jambo overlaps under the intermediate and upper scenarios only. All sites excluding Innisjura overlap with Maerl Beds and 'Maerl or coarse shell gravel with burrowing sea cucumbers' under the upper scenario. Bedentarbet pier and Fairweather V overlap with 'Sublittoral kelp and seaweed communities on sediment' under the intermediate and upper scenarios, Jambo overlaps under all scenerios. Innisjura overlaps with 'circalittoral muddy sands communities' under all scenarios. No management restrictions upon this activity are required. The added protection offered by an MPA designation and management measures placed upon sector activities may increase the aesthetic attraction of the dive sites through an improved marine ecosystem and a reduction in degradation to the wreck sites. The intermediate management measures applied to sector activities will result in an increase of the beneficial impacts seen in the lower estimate. The upper management measures applied to sector activities will result in an increase of the beneficial impacts seen in the lower and intermediate estimates.
Water Sports - Sea Angling Sea angling is carried out along most of the Scottish coastline within 6nm ( SSACN). The NWS proposed MPA is a coastal site with the majority of the site being located within 6nm of the UK coastline. Therefore sea angling overlaps with all features and there corresponding extents within the proposed MPA. No management restrictions upon this activity are required. Sea anglers could benefit from any on-site positive effects resulting from the MPA designation and corresponding management restrictions on sector activities including an increase in the size and diversity of species which in turn is expected to increase the attraction of a site for anglers (Fletcher et al. 2012). The intermediate management measures applied to sector activities will result in an increase of the beneficial impacts seen in the lower estimate. The upper management measures applied to sector activities will result in an increase of the beneficial impacts seen in the lower and intermediate estimates.

Human activities that are present but which would be unaffected by designation of the site as an MPA

Table 6. Human Activities that are present but which would be Unaffected by Designation of the Site as an MPA [ NWS]
Activity Description
Power Interconnectors One consented power interconnector (Western Isles HVDC Link) overlaps with the NWS proposed MPA. The consented power interconnector overlaps with burrowed mud (all scenarios), circalittoral muddy sand communities (all scenarios) and sublittoral kelp and seaweed communities on sediment (all scenarios). In addition the future power interconnector overlaps with maerl beds (upper scenario), maerl or coarse shell gravel with burrowing sea cucumbers (upper scenario) and northern feather start aggregations on mixed substrata (upper scenario). The future power interconnector is also within 1km of flame shell beds (all scenarios). No cost impacts are foreseen, as it is assumed that there will be no review of the existing consents.

Social and Distributional Analysis of Impacts from Designation of the Site as an MPA

Table 7a. Social Impacts Associated with Quantified and Non-Quantified Economic Costs [ NWS]
Sector Potential Economic Impacts Economic Costs and GVA ( PV) Area of Social Impact Affected Mitigation Significance of Social impact
Commercial Fisheries Loss of traditional fishing grounds with consequent loss in landings, value of landings and hence GVA Annual Average Loss in Value of Landings*:
Lower: £0.00m
Intermediate: £0.26m
Upper: £0.51m

Annual Average Loss in GVA (direct and indirect)*:
Lower: £0.00m
Intermediate: £0.11m
Upper: £0.21m
Culture and heritage - impact on traditions from loss of fishing grounds. Health: xx (for individuals affected who do not find alternative employment)
If the loss in GVA significant enough, risk of job losses (direct and indirect) Job Losses*:
Lower: 0.0 jobs
Intermediate: 2.9 jobs
Upper: 5.9 jobs
A reduction in employment can generate a wide range of social impacts which, in turn, can generate a range of short and long term costs for wider society and the public purse:
  • Healt h (increase in illness, mental stress, loss of self esteem
and risk of depression);
  • Increase in crime; and
  • Reduction in f u ture emp lo y me n t prospects/future earnings.
Support to retrain those affected and for the promotion of new small businesses in fisheries dependent areas.
Displacement Effects Not quantified Quantified impact on jobs assume worst case scenario ( i.e. no redistribution of effort). In reality displacement effects likely to occur with socio-economic consequences:
  • Empl o y m e nt - reduced employment due to changes in costs and earnings profile of vessels ( e.g. increased fuel costs, gear development and adaption costs, additional quota costs);
  • Conflict/Loss of social cohesion - diminishing fishing grounds may increase conflict with other vessels/gear types, increase social tensions within fishing communities and lead to a loss of social cohesion among fleets. Could also lead to increased operating costs as a result of lost or damaged gear. Equally, gear conflict could reduce where gears are restricted/prohibited;
  • Healt h - increased risks to the safety of fishers and vessels and increased stress due to moving to lesser known areas;
  • E n v ironmental - increased impact in targeting new areas, longer streaming times and increased fuel consumption; and
  • Cul t ur e a nd her i tag e - change in traditional fishing patterns/ activities.
xx
Energy Generation Additional operational costs Quantified Cost Impact (2014-2033): £0.009 - 2.308m Future employment opportunities - if increased operational costs associated with management measures render projects unviable or restrict project size there will be a negative impact on economic activity and job creation in this sector. xx (under intermediate and upper scenarios)
Costs associated with delays during the consenting process Loss of investor confidence (developments do not proceed) Not quantified

Future employment opportunities - if the delays deter investments there will be a negative impact on economic activity and future job creation in this sector.

Environment - possible negative impact in relation to climate change and the ability of the Scottish Government to meet its 2020 renewables targets, decarbonisation targets and climate change targets. There would also be consequent financial implications of climate change impacts.

This impact is uncertain and is only likely to arise under the upper scenario. JNCC's current advice is that the intermediate scenario represents their best view on management requirements.

xxx (under the upper scenario only)
Impacts: xxx - significant negative effect; xx - possible negative effects; x - minimal negative effect, if any; 0 - no noticeable effect expected.
* These estimates assume zero displacement of fishing activity and hence are likely to overestimate the costs.
Table 7b. Distribution of Quantified Economic Costs for Commercial Fisheries and Fish Processors (assuming zero displacement of fishing activity) - Location, Age and Gender [ NWS]
Sector/Impact Location Age Gender
Region Ports* Rural, Urban, Coastal or Island Children Working Age Pensionable Age Male Female

Commercial Fisheries

Reduction in landed value, GVA and employment

xx

North-West West North-East North

xx

Largest employment impacts in:

Ullapool (43%), Stornoway (13%), Campbeltown (13%), Buckie (9%), Kirkwall (5%), Scrabster (4%), Oban (4%), Peterhead (3%).

xx

Coastal and Island

Rural and Urban

xxx

Potentially significant negative effect if parent loses job/becomes unemployed.

xxx

Potentially significant negative effect if individuals lose job/become unemployed.

xx

Potential negative effect if retirees own affected vessels or live in households affected by unemployment.

xxx

0-6 job losses

Potentially significant negative effect on individuals that lose job/become unemployed.

xxx

Potentially significant negative effect if member of household loses job/becomes unemployed.

Fish Processors

Reduction in local landings at landing ports

x

North-West

x

Lochinver Ullapool Gruinard- Aultbea Stornoway Gairloch

x

Coastal and Island

Rural and Urban

0 0 0 0 0
Impacts: xxx - significant negative effect; xx - possible negative effects; x - minimal negative effect, if any; 0 - no noticeable effect expected.
* Based on value of landings by home port affected under intermediate scenario.
Table 7c. Distribution of Quantified Economic Costs for Commercial Fisheries and Fish Processors (assuming zero displacement of fishing activity) - Fishing Groups, Income Groups and Social Groups [ NWS]
Sector/Impact Fishing Groups Income Groups Social Groups
Vessel Category <15m >15m* Gear Types/Sector* 10% Most Deprived Middle 80% 10% Most Affluent Crofters Ethnic minorities With Disability or Long-term Sick

Commercial Fisheries

Reduction in landed value, GVA and employment

Lower: N/A Upper: >15m Nephrops trawls Dredges xx xx

x

Information only available on average incomes not the distribution of income. Therefore, not clear whether this group will be affected.

0 No breakdown of fisherman employment by ethnic origin

0

No employment data but unlikely to be employed in fisheries

Fish Processors

Reduction in local landings at landing ports

Shellfish: xxx Demersal: xx Pelagic: 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
Impacts: xxx - significant negative effect; xx - possible negative effects; x - minimal negative effect, if any; 0 - no noticeable effect expected.
* Based on costs to gear types/sectors and vessel categories affected under the intermediate scenario.

Potential Contribution of the Site to an Ecologically-Coherent Network

Table 8. Overview of Features Proposed for Designation and how these contribute to an Ecologically Coherent Network of MPAs [ NWS]
Feature Name Representation Replication Linkages Geographic Range
and Variation
Resilience
Burrowed mud Provides representation of the tall sea pen in burrowing mud in OSPAR Region III. One of two areas of tall sea pen in burrowing mud in OSPAR Region III and one of three in Scottish seas. Not currently understood for burrowed mud. Burrowed mud occurs within a range of environments. It occurs in OSPAR Regions II, III and V. The proposed MPA and others within the network will represent the different components of burrowed mud and its geographic range and variation. Seapens and burrowing megafauna are listed by OSPAR as threatened and/or declining. The MPA area may increase resilience.
Flame shell beds Provides representation for flame shell beds in OSPAR Region III. Represents one of five recommended areas for flame shell beds in OSPAR Region III. Not currently understood for flame shell beds. All records of flame shell beds are from OSPAR Region III. The recommended MPA areas would to some extent reflect the geographic range of flame shell beds in Scottish seas. Not listed by OSPAR as threatened and/or declining, although there is evidence of decline. The MPA may increase resilience.
Kelp and seaweed communities on sublittoral sediments Provides representation for kelp and seaweed communities on sublittoral sediment in OSPAR Region III. No information available No information available. No information available. No information available.
Maerl beds Provides representation for maerl beds in OSPAR Region III. Represents one of three areas of maerl bed within OSPAR Region III and one of five in the Scottish seas. No information available. No information available. Maerl beds are listed by OSPAR as threatened and/or declining. MPA area may increase resilience.
Maerl or coarse shell gravel with burrowing sea cucumbers Provides representation for maerl beds in OSPAR Region III. Represents one of two areas recommended for the protection of maerl or coarse shell gravel with burrowing sea cucumbers. No information available. No information available. No information available.
Native oysters Provides representation of native oysters in OSPAR Region III. Represents one of two areas of native oysters within OSPAR Region III. No information available. No information available. Native oysters are listed as threatened and/or declining by OSPAR. The MPA may increase resilience.
Northern feather star aggregations on mixed substrata Provides representation of northern feather star aggregations on mixed substrata in OSPAR Region III. Represents one of three recommended areas for northern feather star aggregations on mixed substrata in OSPAR Region III. Not currently understood for Northern feather star aggregations on mixed substrata. All records of Northern feather star aggregations on mixed substrata are from OSPAR Region III. No information available
Circalittoral muddy sand communities No information available.
JNCC (pers. comm.); SNH and JNCC. (2012). Assessment of the potential adequacy of the Scottish MPA network for MPA search features: summary of the application of the stage 5 selection guidelines.
Available online from: http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Topics/marine/marine-environment/mpanetwork/engagement/270612.

Anticipated Benefits to Ecosystem Services

Table 9. Summary of Ecosystem Services Benefits arising from Designation of the Site as an MPA [11] [ NWS]
Services Relevance
to Site
Baseline Level Estimated Impacts of Designation Value Weighting Scale of Benefits Confidence
Lower Intermediate Upper
Fish for human consumption High. Site fishing grounds are valuable, and contain nursery habitats. Stocks not at MSY, maerl beds extent needs to recover Nil Moderate, protection of shellfish beds can contribute to maintenance and recovery of stocks - benefits are higher under stronger protection measures, but ecosystem response is uncertain. High, significant commercial landings from site. Commercially valuable species supported. Nil - Moderate, extent of ecosystem service and response to management are both unpredictable Low, uncertainty in extent of habitats and their response to management measures.
Fish for non-human consumption Stocks reduced from potential maximum
Gas and climate regulation Low Low Nil Minimal - Low, from restoring habitats. Moderate, social cost of carbon Minimal Moderate
Natural hazard protection Low Low Nil Low Nil High
Regulation of pollution Moderate, benthic communities regulate pollution Low, major water quality issues to be dealt with through WFD Nil Low, protection could allows recovery of species that provide this service Low, water quality in this area not affecting human welfare Nil - Low Moderate
Non-use value of natural environment Moderate - High, variety of protected features, and contribution of the site to MPA network, have non-use value. Non-use value of the site may decline Nil Low - Moderate. Protection of features of site from minor decline Moderate - protection of features of site from decline, and allowing recovery Moderate - range of features means strong contribution to halting decline of marine biodiversity. Nil - Moderate Low - Moderate, extent of features recovery in response to management measures, and value to society, are uncertain
Recreation Moderate - High, active dive sites, angling and recreational boating routes Moderate - High, including tourism activities. Angling may be reduced by damage to features Nil Low - Moderate, Angling benefits and biodiversity encountered by divers and recreational boaters are protected from possible decline, and could recover. Designation could enhance tourism activity. Moderate, extensive activities, but substitutes are available. Low - Moderate, enhancement of activities through improved angling and visitor experiences. Low - Moderate, extent of change from management measures uncertain
Research and Education Moderate Low, small number of biological features have research value and there are substitutes Nil Low, protection of key characteristics of site from decline, possible recovery, improving future research opportunities. Low for individual features. Moderate for opportunity to understand response of wide range of features to management Low Low - Moderate, extent to which research uses site in future uncertain
Total value of changes in ecosystem services Nil for low scenario, moderate for upper scenarios Nil - Moderate Low

Human Activities which Occur within the Proposed MPA NW Sea Lochs and Summer Isles

Fishing Activities which Occur within the Proposed MPA NW Sea Lochs and Summer Isles

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