Written question WQ86232

My officials are engaged in further discussions with the other UK administrations regarding the detonation of unexploded ordnance (UXO). Where this relates to marine developments it is a regulatory matter for the appropriate decision-maker. For example, with respect to marine licensing, Natural Resources Wales (NRW) regulates the activity under the Marine and Coastal Access Act 2009. Should UXO be found and require detonation as part of a marine development, any potential impacts to the marine environment, including marine mammals, and human health and sea users are carefully considered by NRW before any marine licence is granted.

The interim position statement will inform any considerations and a licence will include any necessary mitigation measures or monitoring requirements to ensure the operations are carried out as required by the regulator. NRW makes decisions on a case-by-case basis, in compliance with all relevant legislation as the nature of each UXO consideration can be different.

You may also wish to note the Joint Nature Conservation Committee has produced guidance for minimising the risk of disturbance to marine mammals when using explosives, this guidance is endorsed and used by NRW: JNCC guidelines for minimising the risk of disturbance and injury to marine mammals whilst using explosives | JNCC Resource Hub