The Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry recently concluded a consultation on a small scale trial, investigating the use of redundant marine cable to create an artificial reef.

Whilst the vast majority of respondents were supportive of this proposal, a number of comments were made on both the design of the trial, and the potential for local involvement in it.

Speaking this morning (Monday 10th August), Phil Gawne MHK, Minister for DAFF, said, “I am very pleased to see the high level of public support for this proposal.

"DAFF now intends to proceed with an application to DoT Harbours Division, for permission to proceed with a three-year trial.

"The Department is also grateful for the constructive criticism received during the process. 

"As a result I am pleased to be able to invite all people with an interest in the project to a meeting in Erin Arts Centre, Port Erin on 17th August, to discuss the trial in detail with Dr Ken Collins, of the School of Ocean Science, Southampton University.

"Dr Collins is an acknowledged European expert on the subject of artificial reefs, and he will be keen to discuss the potential for local dive groups, anglers and other interested parties to take an active role in assisting with the three-year monitoring programme he will undertake on behalf of DAFF.”

It is hoped that the first structures will be placed within the Port Erin Closed Area this year, after necessary background monitoring has been completed.

A variety of structures will be put in place, it is expected that they will quickly become colonised by a variety of marine life, and that in time they will support a variety of larger species of interest to both anglers and divers.

A summary of responses from the consultation can be downloaded from: http://www.gov.im/lib/docs/daff/Consultations/cablereefconsultationfeedback.pdf