The Fishing Liaison with Offshore Wind and Wet Renewables Group (FLOWW) has launched updated Best Practice Guidance to support engagement between fisheries and offshore renewable energy sectors.
FLOWW said the revised document reflects challenges arising from recent offshore wind expansion and updates guidance last published in 2014.
It added that the guidance sets out best practice on liaison, communication and information exchange during all phases of offshore renewable projects.
FLOWW was set up in 2002 to foster good relations between the industries and is supported by The Crown Estate.
Colin Warwick, chair of FLOWW, said: “The FLOWW Guidance we are launching today has taken a lot of effort by a lot of people.”
He said: “The journey to where we are today has shown the positive aspects of people working together for a common goal.”
He added: “We must continue to work together to achieve a balanced approach where two industries can Harvest in Harmony.”
Sion Roberts of The Crown Estate said: “Our seaspace is becoming an increasingly busy environment with many important sectors operating in similar or adjacent areas.”
Fisheries minister Dame Angela Eagle said: “We’re putting the conditions in place to make Britain a clean energy superpower and backing our fishing industry to deliver more growth and stability for both the sector and coastal communities.”
Mike Cohen, chief executive at the NFFO, said: “The new FLOWW Best Practice Guidance, through a phenomenal amount of work, has brought together many individuals, with extensive expertise, in a truly collaborative approach.”
Kat Route-Stephens of RenewableUK said: “The publication of this updated guidance reflects a strong sense of commitment by the offshore wind industry, the fishing industry and other key stakeholders to work even closer together to find positive ways to share an increasingly busy marine environment.”
Suzannah Walmsley of ABPmer said: “As a long-time collaborator with FLOWW, we are delighted to see the updated Best Practice Guidance launched today.”