Plans that could have ended Welsh wildfowling revised

The Welsh Government has announced that it has withdrawn the proposals for highly protected marine conservation zones that would have banned wildfowling by default.

Instead, a revised method of Marine Conservation Zone selection and designation will take place for Wales, which is due to be completed by 2016.

BASC has welcomed the move, after the organisation campaigned for wildfowling to continue in designated areas.

The proposals, if carried out, would also have affected angling, collecting shellfish and even beachcombing, banning those activities as well as wildfowling, regardless of whether or not there was any adverse impact on the habitats and species within the conservation zones.

The Welsh Government ran a consultation on the measures last year, but has withdrawn them in favour of a more proportionate and evidence-based approach so that the level of protection and site management will be determined on a step-by-step basis.

Conor O’Gorman, BASC’s policy development manager, said: “Effective conservation measures need to engage and inspire local people to make a difference in their area and we applaud the Welsh Government for listening to those views.”

“We are grateful to everyone who took the time to voice their concerns during our campaign.”

Mike Sherman, chairman of the Pembrokeshire Wildfowlers and vice-chairman of BASC, said: “As chairman of a Welsh wildfowling club, I believe the team at BASC has run a brilliant campaign and I welcome the ministers’ wise decision.”

“This shows that the Welsh Assembly Government is prepared to base its decision on sound evidence and the interests of local people.”

Say what you think in the Shooting UK forums!

Plans that could have ended Welsh wildfowling revised