COAST’s proposal for a South Arran Marine Protected Area (MPA) gathered more pace over Easter. At the first of a series of spring and summer events over 100 children and family groups attended a beach fun day. This was aimed at increasing awareness of our fragile marine environment and the need for an MPA. Our new MPA mascot, the curled octopus was also on show. Further outdoor events, talks and drop in sessions will be held over the summer. These will complement MPA information leaflets, marine habitat posters to be placed around the island, a new MPA facebook page and a new MPA web page. The posters, events and forums will give Arran residents and visitors lots of opportunities to give us their feedback on the proposal. Read more about COAST's concerns about the MPA process below and recent damage to the gravel sea cucumber beds picured above. 

Read April 2013 Newsletter

On the 14 December 2012 COAST's proposal was put before the Scottish Parliament by the Scottish Government as part of a report on a national network of MPAs. Read government press release here. Based on Arran, the largest island in the Firth of Clyde, the Community of Arran Seabed Trust (COAST) recognises and values the amazing marine biodiversity right by our shores and the need to protect it for future generations. COAST is the driving force behind Scotland's first No Take Zone and a proposed South Arran Marine Protected Area (shown in box). 

Our vision - Healthy seas around Arran and the Clyde.

Our purpose - COAST works to ensure shared responsibility for the protection and restoration of the marine environment around Arran and the Clyde and the diversity of life it supports.