PEMBROKESHIRE COASTAL FORUM (PCF) has introduced key updates to the Pembrokeshire Marine Code, following a comprehensive review with stakeholders and conservation organisations. This voluntary code, developed in collaboration with local operators, the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority, and the RSPB, plays a crucial role in supporting the sustainable enjoyment of Pembrokeshire’s coastline by minimising disturbance to sensitive marine species and habitats.

Originally established to address the challenges of increasing recreational pressure, the Marine Code provides practical guidelines to help visitors and local communities enjoy the coastline responsibly. By promoting best practices in marine recreation, the Code assists in protecting the unique biodiversity of the Pembrokeshire Marine Special Area of Conservation (SAC).

The recent updates make the Pembrokeshire Marine Code more accessible and user-friendly, with enhanced resources available online and on-site through beachside noticeboards and the Wales Coast Explorer App. These tools ensure that everyone can understand and follow the guidance to help preserve the area’s natural beauty.

Sue Burton, Pembrokeshire Marine SAC Officer, highlighted the significance of the Pembrokeshire Marine Code: “As more people visit our stunning coastline, it’s essential that we protect the sensitive marine and coastal species within the Pembrokeshire Marine SAC. The Pembrokeshire Marine Code plays a vital role in guiding visitors on how to responsibly enjoy these areas, helping to sustain both recreational activities and our precious marine environment. The visibility of the Pembrokeshire Marine Code – through initiatives like beachside noticeboards and the Wales Coast Explorer App – has been instrumental in raising awareness, ensuring that more people understand the importance of protecting our marine habitats while enjoying all that Pembrokeshire has to offer.”

Kate Lock, Skomer Marine Conservation Zone Officer for Natural Resources Wales, also emphasised the Code’s value:

“Natural Resources Wales works to protect and enhance Wales’ natural environments, and the Pembrokeshire Marine Code is an essential tool in ensuring that our marine wildlife and habitats are protected. By supporting the Pembrokeshire Marine Code, we help reduce disturbance to sensitive species, aligning with our conservation goals and helping the public enjoy the coast responsibly.”

James Parkin, Director of Nature and Tourism at Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority, highlighted the Code’s alignment with regenerative tourism principles:

“The Pembrokeshire Marine Code represents best practice in the joint management of recreational pressures along our precious coastline. It continues to offer a balanced approach to supporting outdoor recreation providers, as a pivotal sector within the wider visitor economy, whilst safeguarding our fragile flora and fauna which needs protecting now more than ever. The Pembrokeshire Marine Code embodies the Park Authority’s commitment to regenerative tourism principles by ensuring that we leave the National Park in a better condition than we found it and, for this reason, it is vital that we all continue to support the Marine Code in retaining the highest standards of practice possible.”

By assisting in minimising disturbance and promoting education, the Pembrokeshire Marine Code is a key element of PCF’s Responsible Recreation programme. Its continued support from organisations like Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority, Natural Resources Wales, RSPB, Wildlife Trust, and the National Trust underscores its effectiveness in fostering sustainable coastal recreation.

For more information on the Pembrokeshire Marine Code and the latest updates, visit www.pembrokeshiremarinecode.org.uk.