PLANS to open sections of the Cardigan Bay Special Area of Conservation to scallop dredgers has caused a split between environmental groups and the county’s AM.

AM Elin Jones has welcomed the Welsh Government proposals which have just gone out to consultation, but opponents warn the plans will be an environmental and ecological “disaster” for the region.

The coastal waters, closed in 2009 following concerns that excessive dredging was harming the future of the fishery and having an adverse impact on other marine life, are home to bottlenose dolphins and porpoises.

Environment and tourist groups have warned that the return of larger-scale scallop dredging will harm sealife and damage a “vitally important aspect” of the county’s tourism.

However, Ms Jones said: “I recall the decisions that had to be made some years ago following over-dredging.

“Progress has been a long time coming, but I welcome the minister’s announcement that he’s intending to reopen sustainable scallop fishing."

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