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Aggregate extraction

We advise the relevant regulator about environmental implications of aggregate extraction. Underpinning that, we help ensure that the environmental and fisheries implications of proposed sand and gravel/marine mineral extraction operations are suitably addressed.

Applications would usually be accompanied by an environmental impact assessment (EIA). Guidance can be found in the following document:

As part of the assessment of applications to the Marine Management Organisation and the Welsh Assembly Government, we will check the following criteria:

  • designated shellfish bivalve production areas 
  • fishing activities and fish resources 
  • benthic ecology 
  • coastal processes 
  • sediment contamination 
  • navigational issues 
  • designated conservation areas 

Our experts can also give advice on:

  • survey design and methodologies - to ensure a robust approach is adopted to support conclusions and assessments of impact
  • applications - to ensure all conclusions and assessments of impact have a scientifically adequate and robust evidence base
  • monitoring programmes -to ensure predicted impacts are suitably monitored, and appropriate and proportional mitigation is enacted.

For more about how we can help you, please email marineaggregates@cefas.co.uk.

Relevant publications

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Last Modified: 24 June 2011