Marine Biosecurity Plan launched to help protect Stour and Orwell Estuaries

The plan sets out good practice measures to reduce the risk of the introduction and spread of harmful species, which could cause serious damage to both marine animal and plant life. They also pose potentially significant economic impacts to ports, marine industries and recreational activities.

Both the Stour and Orwell Estuaries are designated as a Special Protection Area (SPA) for overwintering birds, a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and a Ramsar site for wetland habitats.

The plan has been led and funded by a partnership of Natural England, Harwich Haven Authority, Port of Ipswich (Associated British Ports), the Port of Felixstowe (Hutchison Ports) and Trinity House, and delivered by consultancy firm APEM.

Jenni Murphy, Environment Manager at Harwich Haven Authority, said: “The Stour and Orwell Estuaries are vital for navigation, industry, recreation and the natural environment. This plan shows what can be achieved when organisations work together and share knowledge to better protect the Haven.

“Everyone who uses these waters has a role to play in effective marine biosecurity, and this plan provides clear, practical guidance to support that.”

The actions and guidance contained in the plan have been shaped through a series of local workshops involving a wide range of organisations, individuals and sectors operating across the estuaries, ensuring the measures are realistic, achievable and supported by those who use or have an interest in the Haven.

Alex Baker, Senior Officer – Marine, from Natural England’s West Anglia Area Team, said: “The spread of invasive non-native species can cause significant harm on Marine Protected Areas such as the Stour and Orwell Estuaries Special Protection Area.

“Natural England is grateful to the partnership for the work that has gone into producing this biosecurity plan for the Stour and Orwell. We welcome the launch of the new plan and hope that it will provide a useful resource for stakeholders and users of the rivers wishing to avoid the harmful impacts of spreading invasives species into these habitats.’’

The Stour and Orwell Marine Biosecurity Plan is available to view and download from the Harwich Haven Authority website.