Regions

Marine planning will be implemented at a local level within Scottish Marine Regions extending out to 12 nautical miles. Within these regions, Regional Marine Plans will be developed to take account of local circumstances and smaller ecosystem units. These plans will be developed in accordance with the National Marine Plan and Marine Policy Statement to ensure they are consistent with national objectives and priorities. Regional Marine Plans will be subject to adoption by Scottish Ministers. Regional Marine Plans will not affect reserved functions unless a direction is made under the Marine (Scotland) Act 2010 (consequential provisions) Order 2010.