Marine and Coast

Coastal zones are the ever changing frontiers between land and sea - constantly shaped by wind, weather and tide, these are the most dynamic of the earth’s ocean habitats.

At 650 km in length, the coast of Northern Ireland is relatively short - yet it supports an exceptional diversity of marine wildlife and their habitats. The coast includes highly productive and biologically diverse ecosystems, with features which serve as critical natural defences against storms, floods and erosion. A number of species and habitats are recognized as internationally important and the majority of our beautiful coastline is protected for its special interest.

A range of potentially conflicting uses affects the coast and coastal waters. This dynamic fringe supports tourism, agriculture, aquaculture, inshore fisheries, industry, military and civil firing ranges, commercial harbours and quays as well as being used for waste disposal, aggregate mining and power generation. All these activities and more, occur in a zone well known for its natural propensity to change.

The Department of the Environment’s Integrated Coastal Zone Management Strategy entitled ‘An Integrated Coastal Zone Strategy for Northern Ireland’ was launched on 28th June 2006.

A key aspect of the implementation of the Strategy was the establishment of a Northern Ireland Coastal and Marine Forum [CMF].  The Coastal and Marine Forum is an independent, non-statutory body made up of a cross-section of interests ranging from local government, business, agriculture, fishing and environmental bodies.  Prof. Andrew Cooper. co-director of the Centre for Coastal and Marine Research and Centre for Maritime Archaeology at the University of Ulster in Coleraine is the first Chairman of CMF.  The inaugural meeting of the CMF was held on Friday, 17th November 2006.

The Forum aims to provide meaningful stakeholder input into strategic policies affecting the coastal area, as well as raising awareness on Integrated Coastal Zone Management. In addition it will also provide expert advice, co-ordinate research, and provide support towards the achievement of the strategy objectives. It will also be responsible for monitoring progress and reporting against the targets and objectives contained in the Northern Ireland Strategy.

Click here to view 'An Integrated Coastal Zone Management Strategy for Northern Ireland 2006 - 2026' (7.2mb)

You can view the Northern Ireland Coastal and Marine Forum website.

You can also access the Northern Ireland Environment Agency (NIEA) Coast pages here

Click here to view Minutes of the Coastal and Marine Forum

You can also access the Coastal and Marine Forum Remit (12KB)