article_detail

Lorca City Council will hold a meeting with residents of Ramonete and Puntas de Calnegre next week to discuss plans for a new Marine Reserve of Fisheries Interest (RMIP) around Cabo Cope.

 

The proposed reserve covers 33 hectares of external waters under Spanish government control and 1,703 hectares of inland waters regulated by the Region of Murcia, which includes the coastal area of the Cabo Cope and Puntas de Calnegre Regional Park.

 

This protected area stretches from Punta del Siscal to the border with Águilas, encompassing part of one of the last stretches of unspoiled coastline on the Spanish Mediterranean.

 

Councillor for the Environment María Hernández Benítez announced the consultation plans, explaining that residents will have the opportunity to learn about the project and provide input on its development.

 

"The creation of this marine reserve will be a fundamental tool for ensuring the conservation and regeneration of fishing resources, as well as for protecting the biodiversity of our coast, making environmental protection compatible with the development of sustainable activities,” she said.

 

“Therefore, we will study a proposal for the delimitation of the marine reserve of fishing interest, agreed upon with local residents and reflecting the environmental values and criteria of the technical staff of the Environment Commission," Ms Hernández Benítez added.

 

 

The councillor also emphasised the importance of local involvement in the planning process.

 

"Now that the RMIP is in the public participation phase, it is time to meet with the residents of Ramonete and Puntas de Calnegre to explain the project and allow them to provide input, express their concerns and contribute their proposals to a management model that protects the natural environment while addressing the needs of those who live and work in the area."

 

Public participation in the consultation process remains open until July 29, with the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food accepting contributions and suggestions via email at sgprotec@mapa.es.

 

Ms Hernández Benítez stressed that the marine reserve designation would not prohibit traditional activities but rather regulate them sustainably.

 

"Artisanal fishing, recreational diving and scientific research will continue to be possible under regulation, because protection does not mean prohibition, but rather sustainable management. However, we want these activities to extend to the entire Lorca coast, not just a portion," she stated.

 

The councillor concluded by stressing that making Cabo Cope a marine reserve will protect a special area and help fish and sea life recover, which is good for both the environment and the local economy that depends on the sea.

 

For more local news, events and visiting information, you can go to the home page of Lorca Today

Image: Ayuntamiento de Lorca