THE first three Highly Protected Marine Areas in England are now under the highest level of protection, one of which is Allonby Bay. 

The new generation of marine nature reserves will be governed by tougher regulations to allow sea life a chance to recover.

North East of Farnes Deep, of the Northumberland Coast and Dolphin Head, off Sussex have also received highest level of protection for marine habitats.

Allonby Bay is an area of significant importance due to its ‘blue carbon’ habitats which capture and store carbon, helping to tackle climate change. The protection of this site also benefits a number of shore birds – such as curlews and oystercatchers – that are attracted to the unique habitats.

Marine Minister Lord Benyon said: "Today is a significant milestone for the UK as we ramp up action to recover our important marine ecosystems, and make sure species and habitats can thrive in healthy, diverse environments.

"This is a first step with more announcements to come." 

A spokesperson from Cumbria Wildlife Trust welcomed the decision but said "three HPMAS is not enough".

"After four years of campaigning for Highly Protected Marine Areas (HPMAs), three areas in England have been given this special designation.

"We're delighted Allonby Bay is one of the three HPMAs chosen. It's home to amazing honeycomb worm reef habitats (pictured below) and provides a rich source of feeding for sea and shore birds.

"But three HPMAs is too few. They'll protect just 0.4 per cent of English seas. At a time when our seas are in crisis, this is simply not enough," they said. 

The Government will be exploring additional suitable sites to be designated Highly Protected Marine Area status, with any future options being subject to consultation.