Marine Aggregates

The Solent is an active focus for the aggregates industry, this activity can be divided into two functions:

1. Extraction of aggregates off the south east coast of the Isle of Wight, and in Christchurch Bay.
2. Landing of aggregates, including both marine dredged material and imported crushed rock. Landing for use on the mainland takes place at a number of wharves on the Rivers Itchen and Test, and at Portsmouth and Langstone Harbours. Marine aggregates are supplied to the Isle of Wight via wharves at Cowes and Newport.

Trends in demand for aggregates are principally governed by the market responding to the construction industry, such as housing and road building. Marine aggregates are also used in beach replenishment schemes. Large volumes of aggregates are pumped directly from dredgers onto beaches, providing coastal protection as well as enhancing the amenity value and therefore the economy of an area.

The Crown Estate is the landowner hence owns the mineral rights to the seabed extending to the edge of the UK continental shelf and issues consents for non-exclusive sampling and licences for commercial aggregate extraction. The planning and consenting process is the responsibility of government (Defra), who through a consultation process determines whether an area can be used for aggregate extraction.

To obtain a licence, companies who have been successful in a tender round run by The Crown Estate must go through a Government View (GV) procedure which includes the submission of Environmental Impact Assessments (EIA). This is currently administered by the Marine and Fisheries Agency. If the GV is favourable The Crown Estate will issue the applicant with a production licence.

The Crown Estate's website gives details on the area of seabed licensed, dredged and surrendered each year.

The British Marine Aggregate Producers Association (BMAPA) is the representative trade body for the British marine aggregate industry and a member of the Solent Forum.