The cockle fisheries management plan (FMP) covers relevant stocks in English waters.waters only.
Defra is prepared preparingthe the cockle FMP in partnership with the Association of Inshore Fisheries and Conservation Authorities (AIFCA).) AIFCAand isin collaboratingcollaboration with the relevantcockle InshoreFMP FisheriesEvidence andGroup.
The Conservationevidence Authoritiesgroup (IFCAs)is anda withcollaborative otherforum organisationsthat andbrings stakeholderstogether withscientists anand interestmanagers infrom the fishery.inshore fisheries conservation authorities.
The cockle The cockle FMP will behas been prepared and published to meet the requirements set out in the Fisheries Act 2020.2020.
You can also read the summary of what happens next.
Read more about fisheries management plans.
Areas covered
English waters.
Status
A public consultation to seek views on the draft plan closed on 19 January 2025. View the consultation and the government response at Cockle: proposed fisheries management plan consultation.
The final FMP was published in December 2025.
Contact us
If you would like more information, email shellfish@defra.gov.ukFMPs@defra.gov.uk.