Dredging figures released

THE British Marine Aggregate Producers Association (BMAPA) and the Crown Estate have issued an annual report detailing the extent of UK dredging for the year 2001.

The report is part of both organizations’ commitment to manage marine resources as effectively as possible –– other commitments include the review of all dredging licences over a five-year rolling period and the surrender of areas no longer containing useful sand and gravel resources.

"In order to compile the report, all dredging is monitored by an electronic monitoring system (EMS) fitted aboard every dredger. The EMS records the date, time and position of dredging activity in 50m x 50m blocks, 24h a day, 365 days a year. Due to advances in technology, this year has seen a fourfold improvement in the resolution of dredging activity data."

The results from this year show that a total of 22.76 million tonnes of sand and gravel were extracted from licenced areas in England and Wales during 2001. This represents a small reduction from the 2000 figures when 23.05 million tonnes were dredged.

"The total area of seabed licenced in 2001 decreased by 6% to 1,413km2, while the area of seabed dredged during 2001 reduced by 3% to 173km2. This reduction in the area of seabed is primarily a result of improved resource and operational management by the marine aggregates industry."

"Barry Dennett, chairman of BMAPA, said: ‘BMAPA and the Crown Estate made this commitment to operate transparently and provide as much information as possible about UK dredging. As an industry we are constantly striving to enhance our reputation as a responsible operator in the marine environment.’"

"Copies of ‘Marine Aggregate Dredging – The Area Involved, 4th Annual Report, can be obtained by contacting:"