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Lundy Island Marine Nature Reserve

The idea of a marine nature reserve around Lundy was discussed as far back as 1969 when divers first recorded the presence of warm water marine species. This stimulated an interest in protecting the area and in 1971 a proposal was made by the Lundy Field Society to establish a marine reserve. Provision for the establishment of statutory Marine Nature Reserves was included in the 1981 Wildlife and Countryside Act. Following public consultation, the Secretary of State for the Environment announced the designation of a statutory reserve at Lundy on 21 November 1986.

The Marine Nature Reserve is managed by English Nature, the statutory advisor to Government on nature conservation in England. This is largely achieved through funding for a Warden employed by the Landmark Trust, who lease the island, and in association with the Devon Sea Fisheries Committee, who regulate and manage fisheries in the area.

Lundy remains England's only statutory Marine Nature Reserve

Zones within the Marine Nature Reserve The Red Area is the No-Take Zone: no fishing or collection of sea life of any kind (Devon Sea Fisheries Committee byelaw - The No Take Zone stretches north to Lat 51 12.04N, south to Lat 51 10.07N and east from Lundy’s shores to Long 004 39.00W). No anchors or diver shotlines within 100m of the Knoll Pins. The Yellow Area is the Refuge Zone: no fishing except potting or angling. The Green Area is the Recreational Zone: restrictions as for the Refuge Zone (yellow) but be aware of other water users The Black Circles indicate legally Protected Wrecks : no diving or fishing allowed (without a licence from English Heritage) The Blue Area covers the rest of the Marine Nature Reserve and is the General Use Zone: all activities allowed except spearfishing.

For more details please contact the Warden or:

English Nature The Old Mill House 37 North street Okehampton Devon EX20 1AR Telephone : 01837 55045