A REVIEW of maritime activities on the Menai Strait will be carried out to improve how it is managed.

The strait, which is used by commercial vessel operators, recreational boat users, jet skiers, fishermen and paddle craft, is being assessed by marine consultants ABPmer with recommendations made over the summer.

The review will take place between the Suspension Bridge to Puffin Island, which has a unique and diverse ecology with national and international designations.

Carwyn Jones, major projects and economic development lead for Isle of Anglesey Council, which has commissioned the review, said: “The Menai Strait is an iconic waterway that plays a vital role as a local amenity, as well as supporting our economy, environment and tourism industry.

“The Strait’s ecological importance, coupled with its growing recreational popularity in recent years, means we need to look again at its management and marine safety.”

“This new review commissioned by the County Council will allow us to engage with various stakeholders as we work to ensure a balanced approach to the Strait’s future management which will sustain livelihoods, leisure activities and community use for many years to come.”

Members of the public are being urged to visit the Pier Master’s Office in Menai Bridge between 10am and 2pm on Friday, June 11 to discuss the review with ABPmer.

ABPmer’s maritime specialists have extensive experience undertaking marine risk assessments and other checks to inform management and consents decision making.

A report detailing management recommendations is expected to be delivered in August.

Harry Aitchison, Project Manager at ABPmer, said: “Engaging with stakeholders will be key to this review. We need to understand the risks associated with increased use of the Strait and identify control measures. We will also identify how to minimise negative impacts on the local communities.

“The review will account for maritime activities and the interactions between protected environmental areas, marine safety, as well as the economic value of the Strait and the benefits it provides local communities and their wellbeing.”