Shetland Islands Regional Marine Plan
This plan covers the management of the Scottish Marine Region for the Shetland Isles. It guides and supports decision making for development and use of the sea, and represents the second tier of marine planning following on from the National plan.
Foreword
Shetland has a rich and diverse maritime heritage, closely tied to the islands’ marine environment. The sea has shaped Shetland’s geography, nature, economy and culture, and continues to influence the daily lives of those that call Shetland home. Generations of Shetlanders have embraced and responded to new opportunities, combining them with existing traditions and skills to create a strong and dynamic marine management ethos. Today, climate change and the growth of both traditional and emerging maritime sectors place new pressures on Shetland’s unique ecosystem. Meeting these challenges requires management measures that are locally responsive and designed to ensure long-term environmental and economic sustainability.
Sitting beneath Scotland’s National Marine Plan, the Shetland Islands Regional Marine Plan (SIRMP) recognises the importance of local stewardship, knowledge and ambition in shaping the future of Shetland’s seas. Its development has been informed by the contributions and expertise of the Shetland community, industry and stakeholders over many years. The SIRMP supports sustainable management and decision-making by providing a locally relevant policy framework and robust evidence base, while also contributing to the delivery of national and international objectives including those linked to biodiversity, climate change, marine sustainability and community empowerment.
In preparing the SIRMP, a substantial body of existing and new data has been collated and analysed, offering a comprehensive picture of the marine environment around Shetland. Building on Shetland’s established track record of effective marine management, the Plan sets out a framework to ensure that Shetland’s seas remain clean, healthy, safe and productive, supporting both nature and the local community. As the first regional marine plan in Scotland developed under the Marine (Scotland) Act, the SIRMP provides a strong foundation to address future challenges, coordinate action, and safeguard Shetland’s seas for generations to come.
Simon Pallant (SIC) and Rachel Shucksmith (UHI-Shetland)
Shetland Islands Marine Planning Partnership