Beachy Head Trawling Ban Approved: A Win for Marine Recovery and Anglers

A new byelaw banning bottom-towed fishing gear has been approved for 164 km² of the Beachy Head East Marine Conservation Zone, further strengthening protections for one of Sussex’s most important marine habitats.

Introduced by Sussex Inshore Fisheries and Conservation Authority, from today, trawls, dredges, or similar types of fishing gear towed on or very close to the seabed are banned from being used in the 164 sq km zone 1 of the site. The aim is to protect sensitive chalk reef and other important habitats, while still allowing low-impact methods such as rod-and-line angling and commercial potting.

The decision builds on the success of the Sussex Nearshore Trawling Byelaw 2021, which has already demonstrated clear signs of marine recovery, including increases in key species and habitat health.

While it is disappointing that a small part of the site (28 km²) will remain open to trawling, the Angling Trust welcomes this overall outcome as a significant step forward in protecting our seas. This reflects strong backing from the local recreational fishing community, who have long called for further protections following the implementation of the Nearshore Trawling Byelaw.

Hannah Rudd, Head of Marine at the Angling Trust, said:

“The Angling Trust supported proposals to prohibit bottom-towed gear in Beachy Head East MCZ through last year’s consultation, reflecting the views of the local recreational fishing community who have seen first-hand the benefits of the Nearshore Trawling Byelaw.

“Protections like this are vital to give our seas the space they need to recover, helping to restore habitats and rebuild fish stocks for thriving, sustainable fisheries through low-impact methods such as recreational angling, while also supporting local coastal economies.

“We welcome steps like this around the country to better protect our inshore fisheries and seas, and hope to see similar action taken in other Marine Protected Areas.”

The byelaw means that nearly 30% of Sussex’s inshore waters are now protected from trawling, with further measures across other Marine Protected Areas under consideration under the UK Government’s Stage 3 Marine Protected Area consultation that closed in 2025.