Calls for new status for coastline

Calls for new status for coastline

The South West has about 700 miles of coastline

Representatives from the marine industry are calling for the South West coastline to be made a marine National Park.

Delegates at the Marine South West Conference said it was important for the region's economy.

They are meeting to look at improving the marketing and promotion of the coast's leisure businesses.

John Taynton, from the South West Regional Development Agency, said they wanted the whole coast protected.

Important asset

"Some of it is already protected, like the Jurassic coast.

"But it is such an important asset to the region that many of the delegates feel that it should be recognised by making other parts of the coastline a National Park.

"There are 700 miles of coastline in the region and it produces an awful lot of income for the regional economy."

National Park status would give the coastline the highest level of protection.