Who is responsible?

Competent and Relevant Authorities

Under the English and Scottish Habitat Regulations, Competent Authorities include any Minister, government department, public or statutory undertaker, public body of any description or person holding a public office. Competent Authorities must have regard to the EC Birds and Habitats Directive in the exercise of any of their functions or duties.

Relevant Authorities are defined as those which exercise statutory powers over the marine and intertidal area and are therefore directly involved in the management of marine Special Protection Areas or Special Areas of Conservation. Relevant Authorities must have regard to the EC Birds and Habitats Directives when performing their functions or duties.

Statutory Nature Conservation Bodies

The Statutory Nature Conservation Bodies – Natural England in England, NatureScot in Scotland – have a duty under the English and Scottish Habitat Regulations to advise other Relevant Authorities as to the conservation objectives for marine Special Protection Areas and Special Areas of Conservation.

They are also required to provide advice on activities and pressures that might cause deterioration or disturbance to the habitats or species for which the site has been designated. This advice informs the development of management measures for a site and informs decisions on the impact of proposed activities.

Natural England is currently publishing Conservation Advice for all marine Special Protection Areas, Special Areas of Conservation, and Marine Conservation Zones within English waters. All Marine Protected Areas in English waters have draft Conservation Advice packages in place, with the exception of the Berwickshire and North Northumberland Coast SAC.

Site Users and the Public

The Berwickshire and Northumberland Coast is a stunning place to spend your time. People flock from all over the world to visit our beautiful shores and to delve into our clear waters. The area has an important fishing culture that has been established for thousands of years, and the coastal strip supports local residents living close to the sea. People use and enjoy this wonderful area in many ways. You can help us to protect it by respecting the sensitive nature of our coastal and marine environment, by following the Seashore Code of Conduct and by taking litter home with you. Thank you for your help!