1.1 An application has been received to gather undersized mussels for use as seed from Wyre End Skear on Bernard Wharf, across the channel of the River Wyre from Fleetwood. The applicant states that the mussels are loose and in imminent danger of loss through erosion.

1.2 This area has not previously been used as a seed mussel fishery, and from time to time does support a fishery for sizeable mussels, but yields have been low in recent years. The area Fishery Officer confirms that the bed regularly receives good spatfalls but suffers heavy losses, usually in the autumn period.

1.3 It is intended to survey the area before the Committee Meeting, and the results of the survey will be reported to the Meeting. Officers suggest that the survey results should be the basis on which the application is determined.

1.4 If it is resolved that authorisations should be issued to remove undersized mussels, then this will constitute a "plan or project" under the Habitats Regulations and therefore consultation with Natural England will be necessary, and the proposal will be subject to the Appropriate Assessment process.