8 July 2025

British Marine is alerting members to a Government consultation that could lead to increased licensing costs for marine businesses operating in English and Northern Irish waters.

The Marine Management Organisation (MMO) is consulting on a package of reforms designed to streamline the marine licensing system—but crucially, the proposals also include a review of the current fee structure, aimed at achieving full cost recovery from applicants.

If adopted, this could result in significant increases in marine licensing charges, particularly for complex projects or activities which currently benefit from exemptions.

Key Proposals Include:

• A new fee structure enabling the MMO to recover all its licensing costs directly from applicants, reducing reliance on Government Grant-in-Aid (GiA) funding.
• The introduction of two new ‘self-service’ licences for lower-risk works—though these too would be chargeable.
• Creation of five new licensing exemptions for activities deemed to pose minimal environmental risks.

Amendments to existing exemptions and the removal of exemptions for activities within or near Highly Protected Marine Areas (HPMAs)—meaning more activities may require licensing and associated fees.

While the MMO states the changes will improve efficiency and environmental protection, there is concern across the sector that this could place additional financial and administrative burdens on marine businesses—including boatbuilders, marina operators, repair and maintenance providers, and marine contractors.

Impact on British Marine Members

British Marine is carefully reviewing the proposals, but members are strongly encouraged to consider how these changes may affect their operations, particularly:

• The potential for higher fees for routine or essential works.
• Whether exemptions currently relied upon may be removed or narrowed.
• The fairness and proportionality of the proposed charging approach.
• The ability to plan and budget for future projects amid increased regulatory costs.

Have Your Say

The consultation runs until 15 August 2025. A link to the consultation can be here: https://consult.defra.gov.uk/marine-licensing/marine-licences/

British Marine urges all members who may be affected to review the consultation carefully and respond directly to ensure the sector’s voice is heard.

We will also be preparing an industry-wide response on behalf of members. If you have specific views or wish to contribute to British Marine’s submission, please email technical@britishmarine.co.uk