EIP 2025 — What It Means for Cornwall’s Fleet

EIP 2025

For crews working the western approaches, the government’s Environmental Improvement Plan 2025 lays out a wide-ranging agenda for cleaner seas, stronger protection of marine habitats and a more tightly managed fishery. On paper it promises healthier waters and sustainable stocks. In practice it signals a round of rules, reviews and by-laws that will be felt across the fleets out of Newlyn, Mevagissey and the Isles of Scilly.

Protection, by-laws and access to grounds

Front and centre is the push to complete and strengthen management across England’s network of Marine Protected Areas. The plan sets a clear deadline: conservation by-laws for all MPAs by the end of 2026, with further measures brought in where needed. Highly Protected Marine Areas are part of the picture too, though the locations and detail are still to come.

For Cornish boats working the traditional grounds, this means more scrutiny — and the real possibility of new restrictions in places that have supported local fleets for decades. Nothing is set in stone yet, but the direction of travel is plain.

Fisheries Management Plans — where the real detail will land

EIP 2025 ties its fisheries commitments directly to the Fisheries Act and the continued roll-out of Fisheries Management Plans. Five new plans are due by the end of this year, with more promised in 2026. These plans will shape day-to-day fishing: technical rules, mesh requirements, potential closures, stock controls and seasonal measures. For a mixed Cornish fleet — hake, monk, sole, haddock, sardines, spurdog — the fine print will matter far more than ministerial statements.

Monitoring, enforcement and VMS

Expect firmer monitoring. The plan commits to universal Vessel Monitoring System coverage for every vessel licensed in English waters. Many Cornish boats already carry VMS, but universal coverage closes the gaps in the picture regulators rely on. It may remove some of the quieter corners and flexibility smaller fleets have worked with for years.

Money, quaysides and cleaner water

There are opportunities, if the funding reaches the right places. The Fishing and Coastal Growth Fund — a long-term investment pot — promises support for training, gear development, harbour upgrades and local infrastructure. Alongside that comes significant investment aimed at reducing sewage overflows, cutting pollution and tackling microplastics. Those changes could bring long-term gains for shellfish, inshore grounds and the wider marine environment.

What this could mean for Newlyn’s netters

The impact on boats working selective, low-impact gears — such as the gill-netters out of Newlyn — will depend entirely on how national measures are applied locally. Selective fisheries that already operate with minimal bycatch could suffer if broad, one-size-fits-all rules are imposed to address problems found elsewhere. Ensuring that local knowledge and proven, low-impact practice are properly weighed in the drafting of by-laws and FMPs will be vital if smaller fleets are to remain viable.

The months ahead

EIP 2025 sets the framework. The real outcomes will be shaped by the next wave of consultations: MPA by-law drafting, publication of the new FMPs, and decisions on future spatial protection. These processes will determine how much access Cornish fleets retain to their traditional grounds — and whether the next generation can still make a future in the same waters.

The full report on the EIP can be seen here.

Fisheries APPG to Develop Strategic Plan for UK Fishing and Seafood

 

What should a long-term strategic plan for UK fisheries look like, and what could it mean for our fishing communities, and our nations? Steered by former Fisheries Minister Daniel Zeichner MP and the Group’s Chairs, these are the questions the All Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) on Fisheries seeks to answer as it sets about development of a National Fisheries Action Plan and delivery of an urgently needed roadmap for UK fishing and seafood.

Making a clear case for development of a coherent, cross-departmental strategy for the sector, the high level co-created plan will map the UK’s fishing and seafood industry and its value, and outline key priority areas for action in support of a vibrant, diverse industry. As part of this, the plan will set out recommendations to address key challenges currently facing the sector.

Acting as Independent Chair, former Minister for Food Security and Rural Affairs and former Shadow Minister for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, Daniel Zeichner MP has been appointed by the cross-party Group of MPs and Peers to lead the APPG’s action plan. He will work alongside APPG Chairs Melanie Onn, MP for Great Grimsby and Cleethorpes and Orkney and Shetland MP, Alistair Carmichael to steer delivery of the ambitious framework for the sector.

APPG Chair, Melanie Onn MP said, “Fishing and seafood is a sector which is vital around our coasts and has much to offer our communities. Over the past twelve months, however, the APPG on Fisheries has heard of a range of challenges threatening fishing’s viability. The common thread across each is the gap left by the absence of a holistic strategy for the industry. Drawing on insights from the sector, the APPG is developing an action plan that will set out the need for a Government-led National Fisheries Strategy, and offer a co-designed framework to support its development. We are delighted to welcome Daniel Zeichner to the process, who will build on previous engagement with the APPG to work with us to deliver this much-needed sector plan for fishing and seafood, that can add to the initiatives already underway within Government to support the UK’s fishing industry.”

APPG Chair, Alistair Carmichael MP added, “Over the past years the context in which the UK’s fleets and seafood businesses are operating has changed dramatically. Fisheries today are faced with numerous challenges from spatial squeeze, new marine protection proposals, questions relating to investment, access and training for workers across the sector, safety issues, exacerbated by concerns surrounding cuts to critical stocks, ongoing trade challenges and negotiations over quota and access. Adding to this, responsibility for issues relating to the sector sits across multiple departments and agencies. If this sector – so important to coastal and island communities right around our country – is to succeed, it needs a clear strategy. This is why the APPG is developing this action plan.”

Though the UK has made inroads in recent years on the development of ambitious plans for the management of UK fisheries, a plan for fishing more broadly – as an economic food production sector, has remained absent, despite calls from experts and in contrast with other economic sectors. Vital to many coastal and regional economies, and producing low carbon, nutritious food and a highly valuable commodity, the sector also has much to offer in terms of meeting climate change and biodiversity targets, and contributing to the nation’s food security.

Independent Chair, Daniel Zeichner MP said, “Fishing holds great potential in terms of our food system, health, economy, commitments on nature, and security as an island nation. But there are urgent challenges facing the sector. I have witnessed these on quaysides around our coasts. Over the coming months we will be seeking evidence from fishermen and women, processors, retailers, communities and other fisheries stakeholders to address these challenges and ensure we can develop a whole-sector plan that can meaningfully contribute to a strategy for the sector’s future. This is a much-needed initiative, which I am delighted to be a part of.”

With support from The Fishmongers’ Company’s Fisheries Charitable Trust, publication of the National Fisheries Action Plan is anticipated in summer 2026. Its delivery will be overseen by a dedicated Review Board, with insights also from the APPG’s Expert Panel – both of which comprise cross-sectoral representation from across each of the UK’s nations. The Review Board will hold its first meeting next month. In line with the work of the APPG more broadly, the action plan will cover UK fisheries as a whole in a manner attuned to questions of devolution, and the realities of various national and regional fisheries.

Andrew Wallace, Fisheries Director at The Fishmongers’ Company said, “We are thrilled to see this work by the APPG on Fisheries progress. This is an exciting new endeavour for the Group, a very worthwhile pursuit, and we are proud to facilitate this via our support to the Secretariat. Alongside economic potential, the true value of fishing and seafood extends far beyond this to encompass culture, heritage, place and identity. The sector also holds great promise in terms of food provision, health and sustainability. This action plan by the APPG will offer much that can contribute to a long term vision for our fisheries, while also supporting our environmental and societal goals.”

Mike Cohen, Chief Executive of the National Federation of Fishermen’s Organisations (NFFO) said, “We have been calling for a national strategy for fishing for quite some time. In the last twelve months, that need has become even more pressing. We need a plan that recognises the value of our sector as a food producing economic industry; safeguards our space at sea; protects our grounds; promotes sustainability; supports livelihoods; champions our sector; and allows us to deliver our full national benefit. We commend the APPG for driving this forward by developing an action plan for the sector, and I am delighted to have the opportunity to support this process and collaborate further with the Group as a member of the Review Board.”

Elspeth Macdonald, Chief Executive of the Scottish Fishermen’s Federation (SFF) said, “Development of this action plan by the APPG is coming at a crucial time for the industry. Our primary producers, and consequently our ability to produce renewable, healthy food from our seas, are under threat as never before. The rich waters around our coasts and islands are the envy of many, but without support and a strategic direction for the sector across each of the UK’s nations, we will fail to deliver long term benefits for food security, public health and the economy. I look forward to our continued engagement with the APPG, and to working with the Chairs and others on the Board on development of an action plan that recognises and respects the key role that the devolved administrations have in fisheries matters.”

George Clark, UK & Ireland Programme Director at the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) said, “Right across the UK fishing and seafood supply chain, businesses from the catching sector through to processing and retail, are working hard to provide high-quality, nutritious and sustainable seafood to consumers both here and abroad. As a crucial component of our food system, and with lots of potential to play a more central role in the UK’s food security, health and sustainability agenda, an action plan for UK fishing and seafood that makes these connections is a timely and much needed opportunity. I really welcome this initiative from the APPG on Fisheries, and look forward to providing insights to the process as a Review Board member.”

Oodles of fish on Monday morning's market.

Dark as a cow's guts at 7am...

on this Monday morning's market...

with plenty of hake from the Ygraine...

Stelissa...

Britannia V...

Acionna...

Silver Dawn

and Ajax...

most of the netters were plagued by dogs...

while others found a few pollack...

bass was spirited off the market quickly enough...

which had Newlyn's usual mix of not so common fish for which it is famous like these cracking tub gurnard...

and octopus...

more spurdogs than you would want...

and, testimony to just how  prevalent and dense the number of octopi are on the ground, the netter Stelissa landed over 100kg ...

no prizes for guessing in which cove these cracking reds were landed...

the bass-meister was at it again over the weekend...

big crabber on the move...

as if, by magic, fish just disappear from the market.

 

Fisheries Minister visits Newlyn

The UK’s new Minister for Food Security and Rural Affairs, Dame Angela Eagle, has paid a visit to Newlyn to meet face to face with Cornwall’s fishing industry and wider seafood sector.

This visit follows the changes in the cabinet, and comes at a criticial juncture relating to decisions within the current UK EU negotiations, developing the new Fishing and Coastal Growth Fund, as well as the expected outcome from the stage 3 of marine protected area consultation.

The Minister’s visit to Newlyn kicked off with an early morning visit to the auction

‘This visit was a chance to reinforce the true value of seafood to Cornwall and it was positive to present the Minister with so many solutions and opportunities. The one fisherman to fifteen seafood supply chain job ratio in Cornwall is exactly why the new Fishing and Coastal Growth Fund matters so much, and why backing the Cornish pilot would deliver the greatest return for public investment,’ said CFPO CEO Chris Ranford.

‘But to unlock that potential we also need a genuine shift in policy direction that gives the fishing and seafood sector the space to grow. It is now time for action from the Minister and Cornwall is well placed to lead the change.’

Accompanied by senior DEFRA officials, the MMO and the NFFO, the Minister was given a full net-to-plate tour of Newlyn, startng with an early walk through the fish market that showcased the range, volume, and value of Cornish seafood and its importance to national food security. A stop at fish merchant and processor business Cornwall Fish Direct highlighted opportunities to grow domestic consumption and promote the positive health benefits a seafood diet offers our nation.

Minister for Food Security and Rural Affairs Dame Angela Eagle was given a net-to-plate tour of Newlyn’s fishing industry ‘It has been invaluable to visit Newlyn’s fish market, auction and quayside this week, and to speak directly with fishermen and seafood businesses about opportunities ahead for Cornwall’s fishing industry. The diversity of fleet, fish and buyers in Newlyn is a real strength, and understanding how we source the fish on our plates is vital to ensuring transparency across the food chain,’ the Minister commented.

The Minister met skippers across the inshore and offshore fleet, hearing directly about the need for better management of our inshore grounds, and gained insight into the challenges of mixed fisheries in the Celtic Sea. She also met members of the Young Fishermen Network and signed their campaign buff in support of their new four point manifesto that focuses on training, mentoring, help to buy and creating fishing opportunities for the next generation. A final pitstop was made at Harveys Shellfish merchants to discuss the importance of developing and implementing shellfish management, as well as wider issues and opportunities on trade.

‘Cornwall is the best place in the country for our political decision makers to build their understanding of the fishing industry. Standing on Newlyn fish market floor or the deck of a working boat cuts through the complexity. The Minister saw first hand the pride, passion, and professionalism of Cornish fishermen. With major consultations and negotiations surrounding us, this visit could not have come at a more important moment and we look forward to some more positive outcomes this year and next,’ commented CFPO Chairman Paul Trebilcock.

Bridge Watchkeeping Course Opens in Looe for Under-16.5m Skippers

 

News from the SCT team this week, and it’s welcome reading for anyone looking to take the next step in their wheelhouse career. The centre has opened bookings for its five-day Bridge Watchkeeping and Navigation course — the key rung on the ladder for commercial fishermen aiming for their Under 16.5m Skipper’s ticket.

Normally run out of Newlyn, the course is shifting east for this block, with Looe becoming the temporary training hub. That move puts the classroom within easy reach of crews working the coast between Rame and the Lizard, giving those further from Mount’s Bay a chance to train without the long drive west.

The programme runs over five intensive days, aimed squarely at anyone taking a navigational watch and for skippers running boats under 16.5m outside the 20-mile limit. Better still, it’s currently grant-funded — a rare chance to pick up a qualification that genuinely opens doors without the sting of full fees.

SCT are encouraging interested fishermen to get in touch with the office for details, dates and funding guidance. A good opportunity for working crews to sharpen their charts-and-compass skills before the winter weather truly sets in.

Sardine Hunt in the Swell

Most of the Newlyn fleet braved the conditions in the early hours of this morning, setting sail after a day of gale-force winds. The heavy ground sea was still running high across Mounts Bay as boats searched for marks from first light.

It proved to be a tough night for some of the the fleet. The Lyonesse and Serene Dawn struck gold, sharing the catch between them. For the rest, it was a short steam back to port empty-handed.

Proof, if we needed it, that it's called fishing, not catching!

Biggest news of the year! Falkland Islands-based Fortuna reels in acquisition of Cornwall’s oldest fishing and processing business.

Ocean Fish themselves bought a majority share in W Stevenson & Sons back in 2019.

Ocean Fish Group, Cornwall’s oldest fishing and processing import-export business, has been acquired by Falkland Islands-based Fortuna, a move which fuels its drive to hit £100m in revenue by 2030.

With the acquisition of the Ocean Fish Group, Fortuna, the largest fishing company in the British Overseas Territories, is taking its first steps into the UK fishing industry.

Fortuna, through its shareholdings and subsidiaries, is the largest quota or license holder in the Falklands for Loligo and Ilex squid, finfish and Patagonian Toothfish, It has recently secured exclusive rights to the concession to fish for lobster in the Tristan da Cunha archipelago from 2027.

The deal strengthens Ocean Fish’s UK operations and further extends its global sales opportunities through access to new products and working with Fortuna to promote their own UK quota species into new global markets.

Andrew Lakeman is seen here lending a helping hand to land sardines, a fishery which he helped grow with Ocean Fish's own fleet of purpose build boats.

Ocean Fish, which was previously majority owned by the Lakeman family who have been fishing in Cornwall for generations, has established itself as a leading supplier into wholesale, foodservice and retail customers in the UK and Europe in recent years through the core acquisitions of W Stevenson and Sons in Newlyn and a recent joint venture with Chapman’s of Sevenoaks.

James Wallace, managing director Fortuna Ltd, said: “This is a significant acquisition for Fortuna which builds on our strengths as a company, helps further diversify our business, and provides exciting opportunities to realise synergies between the two companies. Ocean Fish Group is unique in its vertical integration, and we are very excited to be involved in the future of the company and help to deliver its impressive plans for growth. I am delighted to welcome them into the Fortuna Group, and to build on the legacy of the Lakeman family.”

Leigh Genge, who remains invested as a minority shareholder as well as the continuing chief executive for the UK group, said: “This new partnership is the joining of two like-minded businesses with strong cultural and commercial alignment. The access to wider group support as we set about delivering turnover of £100m by 2030 was a compelling factor for me in this consolidation.

“Our unique and vertically integrated supply chain just became much stronger with access to new global markets, product synergies and a new species into the UK. I would like to thank James Wallace, the Fortuna Group managing director, and the wider Fortuna board who believed in and share my ambitions for the group.

“I would also like to thank Andrew and Edward Lakeman for their unwavering support and friendship over the past few decades. I think we can all be exceptionally proud of the success we have achieved with Ocean Fish and I know that The Lakeman family heritage is in safe hands.”

The acquisition was supported by Andrew Jacksons, Kreston Reeves, FRP Advisory, Michelmores and HSBC.