A joined up approach between the Scottish and UK legislation is also important to provide an effective framework for marine management.
The post Joint Ministerial Committee agreement on marine management was produced in 2009 which means that Scotland will receive executive responsibility for planning and nature conservation out to 200 nautical miles. This is provided for in the UK Marine and Coastal Access Act 2009.
In addition, a Joint Marine Planning statement was made in 2009 which explains that each whilst England and Scotland will prepare marine plans in the way that is most appropriate for their individual marine planning regions, there is a committment to working together to enable a joined up planning process across borders.