2012 Cefas Subtidal Verification Survey Utopia rMCZ

This report details the findings of dedicated seabed surveys at the Utopia recommended Marine Conservation Zone (rMCZ). The site is being considered for inclusion in a network of Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) in UK waters designed to meet conservation objectives under the Marine and Coastal Access Act 2009. Prior to the dedicated surveys the site assessment had been made on the basis of best available evidence drawn largely from historical data modelled habitat maps and stakeholder knowledge of the area. The purpose of the survey was to provide direct evidence of the presence and extent of the broadscale habitats (BSH) and habitat FOCI (Features of Conservation Importance) that had been detailed in the original Site Assessment Document (SAD) (Balanced Seas 2011).