1.1 A comprehensive survey of the cockle beds at Traeth Lafan was carried out in June 2009. The density and distribution of adult cockles at each of the sampling stations is shown at Annex A, and the same data for oversized cockles (i.e. those above the Committee’s minimum landing size) is shown at Annex B. The average densities (no/m²) of cockles of different age classes over the whole bed area are summarised in the table below.

2.1 The stock survey indicates that there is a fishable stock of cockles at Traeth Lafan, of similar magnitude to last year. It is therefore anticipated that fishing will take place on September 1^st, when the closed season finishes. The likely effort is difficult to predict, as it will be largely driven by market demand and price at the start of the fishery. However, the very poor stock situation in Morecambe Bay, coupled with the continuing cockle mortalities in South Wales, suggest that there will again be significant activity at Traeth Lafan

3.1 Cockle fishing at Traeth Lafan has in previous years been controversial in relation to both nature conservation and social issues, particularly access to the site and conflict with other users of the area.

3.2 The fishery has benefited in recent years from an inter-agency approach to its management, with a single access point and car park enabling much more manageable focus of the activity. Last year saw the appointment of the Traeth Lafan Project Officer (TLPO) whose work has significantly reduced the concerns over the fishery.

3.3 This year a similar management approach will be taken. An interagency liaison meeting has been set up for the 18^th of August to finalise the joint on site management. This, as last year, will involve ensuring that the pre site checks and set up are carried out and that there is a multi agency presence at the site. This joint presence is likely to be for every low tide for the first few weeks, and then as necessary depending on activity levels.

3.4 The TLPO has also written and submitted for initial comment a draft strategic management plan for the future management of the fishery. This document outlines the current management and its effectiveness, as well as outlining the potential future management options for this fishery.

3.5 Stakeholder comments on the draft management plan are being invited up to the end of September. The plan will be then amended as appropriate, and presented to a future meeting of the Committee for discussion and approval.