This petition aims to Save Ramsey South Shore and the Ramsey Bay Marine Nature Reserve from irreparable harm caused by the dredging of the Bay, and the construction of a housing estate, commercial properties and marina.

A jewel in the Northern biosphere, Ramsey Bay has always been a free, open, public space, enjoyed by families for outdoor leisure, recreation and mental and physical wellbeing for generations.

The first area on the Isle of Man to be designated a Marine Nature Reserve, the Bay is home to many diverse species of fish, plus horse mussel reefs, maerl beds and eelgrass meadows. Protection of eel grass remains vitally important to reaching the Isle’s carbon neutral targets, being 35 times more effective at carbon capture than tropical forests and is flourishing in the Ramsey MNR.

From the Department for Environment, Food and Agriculture:

“Eel grass, also known as sea grass, cleans the ocean by absorbing polluting nutrients, while also absorbing carbon dioxide and producing oxygen, and is found in four areas around the island’s coast including Ramsey Bay.

Since the 1930s, marine scientists estimate that eel grass meadows have declined by 90% in the North Atlantic; initially due to disease, but subsequently due to pollution, poorly-managed coastal development and other human activities. Globally, the various sea grass habitats have been declining at around 7% per year, so they have become an important focus for conservation.

A recent survey by the Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture, using specialist underwater camera equipment, revealed this special plant had ‘expanded significantly’ in Ramsey Bay Marine Nature Reserve (MNR).”

This is a vital issue in the upcoming General Election. Please sign this petition to demand the Isle of Man Government uphold its status as a designated Unesco Biosphere and protect the Ramsey Bay MNR from private development. Preserving the area and keeping it free for all.