To inform Members that Officers recommend the strengthening of protective measures already in existence for an area of seabed off the North Llyn coast.

1.1 For a number of years all scallop dredging has been prohibited in a defined area off the north Llyn coast. The prohibition, under Byelaw 12, affords protection to sensitive reef structures and Horse Mussel.

1.2 Concerns have been raised by Countryside Council for Wales that bottom towed gear also has the potential to damage the sensitive features within the designated area. Officers have considered these concerns and agree that there is potential for future damage. This byelaw seeks to reduce that risk and thereby allows the Committee to fully discharge its statutory environmental responsibilities.

1.3 The proposed byelaw retains the previously agreed co-ordinates of the designated area, therefore neither increasing nor decreasing the area of prohibition for the use of scallop gear.

1.4 There is no historical evidence of the legal use of any bottom towed gear in the designated area. There would therefore be no new financial loss to the industry.

1.5 Static gear would not be prohibited in the designated area, therefore again there would be no cost implications for the industry.

1.6 Officers recommend the byelaw as a pro-active management measure which would have no impact on current fishing practice.

1.7 The proposed Byelaw 21 has been submitted to DEFRA and WAG for legal scrutiny.