Unexploded ordnance and marine mammal mitigation
The release of further research into the effects of subsea noise upon Annex II marine mammals from activities such as the detonation of unexploded ordnance on the seabed to allow for installation of infrastructure has changed the nature of consenting of this activity in the UK. There is significant focus on applications for this type of activity from the Statutory Nature Conservation Bodies to safeguard marine mammals in UK waters and minimise the risk of exposure to noise which could kill or injure sensitive species.
We have worked with several interconnector projects in directing and overseeing Marine Mammals Risk Assessments and Impact Assessments to develop location- and project-specific Marine Mammal Mitigation Plans in line with current Joint Nature Conservation Committee (JNCC) Guidance and the latest scientific literature. This is imperative to secure marine licences and European Protected Species (EPS) Licences to ensure that works are carried out to prevent harm to these species but also allow developers to undertake their projects in a safe and sustainable way. With a detailed understanding of the consenting procedures and legislation for the respective licences and the emerging science and regulatory stance, we have secured licences well within the guideline timescales supported for obtaining marine licences and EPS licences by targeted and effective strategic engagement with the regulators and Statutory Nature Conservation Bodies.”