The designation of European marine sites has taken place within the context of existing patterns of use. It should not be assumed therefore that the requirement to maintain the conservation interest is necessarily incompatible with existing activities within sites. It is only through site level assessment that the need for particular management schemes will be manifest.

There are a variety of management methods available for the management of recreation in coastal areas. These techniques can in some cases work as stand alone actions but more often will be used in combination with other measures. It is important that relevant authorities and site managers are aware of management measures that are already in place at site level, whether for conservation objectives or for safety and amenity purposes. The latter may well be contributing indirectly to the SAC’s objectives.

Where new measures are required, existing structures may provide the most appropriate management route. In areas with few existing mechanisms for managing recreational activities, there is the opportunity to build comprehensive consultation into the initial development of the strategy.

A wide range of management strategies are available to reduce the potential conflict between water-based recreation and marine features. These can include liaison between interested parties, effective zoning, constraints on activities and changes in habitat management. Such measures can be undertaken from a voluntary approach or through regulation.

A hierarchical approach to activity control in a variable environment

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