Abstract
For the purposes of the assessment, the following four main aspects have been taken into account:
- Commercial importance of fish and shellfish species;
- Presence of spawning and nursery grounds;
- Key prey species for sea birds, marine mammals and fish; and
- Presence of species of conservation importance, including migratory species.
It should be noted that certain species are relevant within more than one of the aspects given above and as a result, some overlap is to be expected.
In addition to providing an assessment of the potential effects on a species/species group basis, an assessment of effects on fish and shellfish species that are qualifying interests in the SACs, identified by SNH in the scoping response as requiring consideration (Table 11.1 consultation table), has been undertaken for each potential effect. The effects have also been summarised in terms of their Likely Significant Effect on features of the European designated sites in order to highlight those effects that will be carried forward for further assessment under the Habitats Regulations (to be presented in a Report to Inform an Appropriate Assessment).