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2026 marks the 15th anniversary of the establishment of England’s Inshore Fisheries and Conservation Authorities (IFCAs), recognising 15 years of dedicated work to manage inshore fisheries sustainably and protect the marine environment.
Established in April 2011 under the Marine and Coastal Access Act 2009, IFCAs replaced the former Sea Fisheries Committees. Their creation marked a major step forward in marine management, introducing a novel, accountable and locally led approach to balancing the protection of marine ecosystems with the social and economic needs of coastal communities.
Over the past 15 years, IFCAs across England’s 10 districts have played a vital role in improving fisheries management, safeguarding marine habitats and supporting the long-term sustainability of inshore waters. Working closely with the fishing industry, government and other regulators, scientists, conservation organisations and local stakeholders, IFCAs have developed practical, evidence-led responses to complex challenges. These have included protecting sensitive habitats, introducing byelaws to support responsible fishing, and improving understanding of emerging fisheries.
The establishment of IFCAs also came at a pivotal time for England’s seas, alongside the designation of England’s Marine Protected Area network. For these protected areas to be effective, appropriate fisheries management measures were needed. IFCAs have worked tirelessly with local communities and stakeholders to develop and implement management that is both internationally important and locally tailored.
To mark the anniversary, the Association of IFCAs will share a dedicated series of 15 stories, each highlighting a key achievement from the past 15 years. Together, these stories will showcase the breadth of IFCA work, from Marine Protected Area management and fisheries science to enforcement, innovation, and meaningful engagement with coastal communities and the fishing industry.
The celebrations will culminate in a National Celebration of Inshore Fisheries at Alnwick Castle, Northumberland, on 1 July 2026. The event will bring together partners, government bodies, MPs and fishing industry stakeholders to reflect on progress, share knowledge and look ahead to the future of England’s inshore fisheries.
Tony Tomlinson MBE, Chair of the Association of IFCAs, said: “Over the past 15 years, IFCAs have demonstrated the value of local management in delivering sustainable fisheries and protecting our marine environment. This anniversary is a chance not only to celebrate those achievements, but also to recognise the people who make this work possible every day.”
As IFCAs look beyond 2026, they remain committed to delivering their duties successfully, balancing environmental protection with the needs of inshore fisheries and coastal communities, while adapting to emerging challenges such as climate change.
To follow the 15 Stories of IFCAs, visit the Association of IFCAs on Instagram (@association_ifca), LinkedIn (Association of IFCAs) and X (@AssociationIFCA).
You can also watch AIFCA’s new films about IFCAs on their ‘About Us’ page here.
For more information, please contact Emily Bulled, Communication and Engagement Manager at the Association of IFCAs, at emily.bulled@association-ifca.org.uk.
