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A pilot project which will help shape Scotland's first Marine Bill has been conducted in the Sound of Mull.
A public consultation together with drop-in sessions about the Sound of Mull Scottish Sustainable Marine Environment Initiative (SSMEI) will start this month.
Two and a half years in production, the draft Sound of Mull Marine Spatial Plan tackles issues such as the regulation, management and protection of the marine environment of Sound of Mull, and will provide valuable information informing the design of legislation in the Scottish Marine Bill, which is currently being debated in the Scottish Parliament.
Environment Minister Roseanna Cunningham said: "The Scottish Government is making marine planning and management more efficient, inclusive and accessible - both now and for future generations through the development of the Scottish Marine Bill.
"I welcome this draft plan, a significant milestone for an area that has been intimately linked with the marine environment for generations. Its production will help inform the future development of marine planning in Scotland and I congratulate everyone involved in its preparation.
"I would now urge anyone, whether an individual or representative of industry or community, who has an interest in the future of the Sound of Mull, to read the draft plan and put forward any suggestions for improvement."
Argyll & Bute Councillor Robert Macintyre, spokesperson for Economy, Environment and Rural Affairs, added: "The Sound of Mull is an area of great natural beauty appreciated by many visitors every year, and is vital to the well-being of the local communities.
"This plan aims to ensure sustainable usage of the area for the sake of all who utilise or enjoy it. Whilst further input from industry, marine users and agencies is anticipated, views from the wider public are very much welcomed."
The development of the Sound of Mull Marine Spatial Plan has been guided by the Sound of Mull Working Group, which comprises a wide variety of local stakeholders who have an interest in the area.
(GK/BMcC)
