Politicians have backed calls for a clear plan setting out how the island’s territorial seas should be used in the future.
Members agreed that a marine spatial plan should be developed within the next 18 months.
The plan would map out where different activities could take place in Manx waters, including offshore energy, cables, fishing, shipping routes, and conservation areas.
An amendment to the original motion from Julie Edge was put forward by Dr Michelle Haywood and carried by members.She said the plan would be “a practical tool that allows us to make consistent and evidence-based decisions about our seas”.
Framework
Ms Edge, had called for a wider framework covering how the island could benefit financially from its marine resources, including proposals for a Manx Marine Resources Fund.
Ms Edge argued that a marine spatial plan alone would not be enough. She said: “What I’m asking here is for the island to stand out significantly different, and to do a framework that covers all of the elements that we require to get the benefit from that natural resource.”
However, members voted to support the amendment. Speaking in favour, DEFA Minister Clare Barber said: “The importance of our territorial seat is absolutely not in dispute.
“It’s a national natural resource of strategic significance.”
The amendment was backed by 24 votes to two in the House of Keys, with the Legislative Council voting six to none in favour.
The plan would take into account existing uses of Manx waters, including marine nature reserves, fishing areas, and the shipping route. It would not affect any current leases or applications.