30 October 2012
Review of the Shetland Marine Spatial Plan published
NAFC Marine Centre has undertaken and published a review of the ‘Shetland Marine Spatial Plan’ (SMSP). This review provides an overview of the SMSP achievements to date, including its successful endorsement internationally as an exemplar case study for marine spatial planning. The SMSP is a plan-led approach to the management of the seas around Shetland, facilitating a more integrated and better informed decision making process in relation to marine activities. The Shetland Marine Spatial Plan brings together authoritative spatial data on the marine and coastal environment and its various uses. It establishes an overarching policy framework to guide the placement of activity, from marine renewable energy to aquaculture. It is hoped it will provide a useful resource for all users of the marine environment including developers, planners and regulators. The Shetland Marine Spatial Plan is now in its third edition
