Cockle fisheries management plan (FMP) for English waters
The cockle FMP describes how we will achieve the long-term sustainable management of cockle fisheries in English waters.
The cockle fisheries management plan (FMP) covers stocks in English waters only.
Defra prepared the cockle FMP in partnership with the Association of Inshore Fisheries Conservation Authorities (AIFCA) and in collaboration with the cockle FMP Evidence Group.
The evidence group is a collaborative forum that brings together scientists and managers from the inshore fisheries conservation authorities.
The cockle FMP has been prepared and published to meet the requirements set out in the Fisheries Act 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 FMPs@defra.gov.uk.