AREA PARTNERS SOUGHT TO SHAPE REGIONAL SEAFOOD PRIORITIES

• Fishing organisations, businesses and coastal communities are invited to apply as ‘area partners’ to help shape regional seafood plans
• Selected partners will co-design seafood plans alongside government, giving the sector a greater say in decisions that affect them
• Government is looking for up to four organisations to take part in the trial, starting in March 2026

Fishing organisations, businesses, and coastal communities are to have a greater say in setting local strategies and direction as the government launches a trial of a regional approach to seafood planning.

The government is inviting expressions of interest from organisations to act as an ‘area partner’ leading the development of a draft seafood plan for their region that reflects local priorities for the seafood sector and marine environment.

Each draft plan, reflecting the needs of each region, will set out locally identified priorities and opportunities for growth and sustainability in fishing. In future, plans could support funding bids for the £360 million Fishing and Coastal Growth Fund, which aims to modernise the fishing and seafood sector, build resilience and support coastal regeneration.

The plans will support the government’s ambition to work in partnership to secure a sustainable, profitable and resilient fishing and aquaculture sector, helping local communities thrive.

Starting in March 2026, the trial will test whether a regionally-led approach can better reflect local needs, strengthen community ownership, and deliver improved outcomes for fishers, processors, aquaculture businesses and recreational sea anglers.

Area partners will work with government to host a regional workshop, gather local evidence and expertise, and co-develop a draft seafood plan for their area. Successful partners will receive facilitation support, guidance and templates to help develop their plans.

The government is determined to seize the opportunities ahead for the UK’s fishing sector, ensuring the industry can maximise its contribution to the country’s food security and local economic growth.

Organisations are invited to apply by 12pm Friday 6 March 2026 by contacting Defra on LocalSeafoodTrial@defra.gov.uk