A project to improve life along the coasts of the South West region is set to be launched.
Finding Sanctuary aims to create a network of Marine Protected Areas (MPA) in which the needs of local people and the environment are balanced.
Work will be carried out by an impartial steering group made up of representatives from fishing, leisure and conservation groups.
The project will cover parts of Cornwall, Devon and Dorset.
MPAs will be set up to balance the needs of people who depend on the sea for their livelihoods or leisure activities with the protection and conservation of marine habitats and sea life.
Recommendations for improvements will be made to the government.
Among the project backers are county councils, Wildlife Trusts and Natural England.
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