Seabed Infrastructure on Sandbank MPAs: Assessing the impact on feature extent

The research project will fill evidence gaps required by Natural England in our MPA site condition assessments. Specifically in relation to how we should best consider impacts from deposited rocky substrate on sandbank extent and distribution. Such work will help inform our MPA condition assessment and HRA advice on major offshore infrastructure. Seabed rock protection deposited by energy infrastructure in sandbank Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) is a major issue. It is a reason why several Special Areas of Conservation (SACs) are in unfavourable condition, it is a reason why some offshore wind projects have required government derogation and is driving a large strategic habitat compensation programme, it is also an important factor controlling where offshore wind farms are built. Yet there is significant uncertainty regarding how rock protection impacts the ecology of sandbank habitats.

Additional information: We are looking for a fairly brief tender proposal, which will be evaluated after Christmas for an immediate start in the new year. The closing date is the 2nd January as this will allow time to reallocate funds in the event there are no submissions, if you wish to undertake this work and are planning on submitting a proposal, but you are struggling to meet the deadline please contact Mark Johnston or Nancy Reinoso as soon as possible.