INTRODUCTION
On behalf of the Chair Amelia Henderson and the Chief Officer Mark Southerton (both pictured left), we would like to welcome you to our Annual Plan for 2025 to 2026. This plan sets out our priorities and objectives for the coming year, reflecting our ongoing commitment to the sustainable management of our inshore marine environment and the fisheries it supports. The Northumberland coast is a place of rich natural heritage, cultural identity, and economic importance. As the lead Statutory Regulator in the inshore zone, it is our duty to ensure that the marine ecosystems and coastal communities that depend on them are safeguarded for future generations. As an Authority, we continue to work closely with all our commercial and recreational stakeholders, coastal communities, environmental organisations, and partner agencies to balance environmental protection with the needs of a sustainable inshore fishing industry. Through evidence-based decision-making, proportionate regulation, and active community engagement, we aim to promote responsible fishing practices, protect marine biodiversity, and contribute to the wider goals of the Marine and Coastal Access Act 2009 and the Fisheries Act 2020. This Annual Plan outlines how we will deliver our statutory duties, looks at our local priorities ahead which are supported within our success criteria, to further our mission of achieving healthy seas, sustainable fisheries, and thriving coastal communities. We wish to thank the Authority members for their continued support over the last twelve months and look forward to working alongside them in this new year. Thank you for your interest in our work. We look forward to continuing our collaboration with all stakeholders as we strive to protect and enhance our unique marine environment.
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