RYA Cymru Wales welcomes first Wales National Marine Plan

RYA Cymru Wales sailing in Cardiff Bay © RYA Cymru-Wales

RYA Cymru Wales has welcomed the first Wales National Marine Plan, which provides a 20 year plan for sustainable use of the seas around the Welsh coast, including recreational boating.

The Marine Plan includes provisions to support clean, healthy, safe and diverse areas, guide future development and support the growth of marine space and natural resources.

It recognises the importance of the tourism and recreation industry in Wales which can boost coastal economies, as well as increasing the volume of recreational boating as an important activity which should be supported wherever possible.

"We welcome the publication of the first Wales National Marine Plan," said RYA Cymru Wales Chief Executive Officer Gerwyn Owen.

"We have worked very hard alongside the Welsh Government to provide significant input on the areas of the plan which affect the boating community in Wales along with the welcome visitors to our shores.

"This is a sector which makes a substantial contribution to the Welsh economy in coastal areas, while our clubs and centres do a lot of important work.

"We are pleased to see the recognition of that importance, with a 20 year plan to provide support, encouraging industry bodies and public authorities to work together to promote opportunities.

"The report describes the tourism and recreation sector as being a strategic priority, so we are delighted to see that being recognised at the highest level of government in Wales."

The Minister for Environment, Energy and Rural Affairs, Lesley Griffiths, published Wales' first Marine Plan. This sets out Welsh Government's policy for the next 20 years for the sustainable use of our seas.

"I am pleased to announce the publication and adoption of the first Welsh National Marine Plan, setting out a 20-year vision for clean, healthy and productive Welsh waters," said Griffiths.

"I would like to take this opportunity to thank the many interested stakeholders and partners who have contributed their time, expertise and ideas.

"The publication of this Welsh National Marine Plan is our opportunity to develop a distinctively Welsh approach to the management of our seas, in line with the goals and ways of working enshrined in the Well-being of Future Generations (Wales) Act 2015.

"Economic activity in our seas contributes millions of pounds and thousands of jobs, which benefit our coastal communities and our economy as a whole. Our iconic coastline is fundamental to our cultural heritage and identity."

See the Senedd statement here.

For further details about Welsh sailing and watersports, please go to RYA CYMRU Wales page on website or Facebook page or follow on Twitter @RYACymruWales. You can also keep up to date by following RYA Cymru Wales on Instagram.