On 12 January 2010, Lundy Island was designated as the UK’s first Marine Conservation Zone, following the implementation of the Marine and Coastal Access Act 2009.
Marine Conservation Zones are intended to protect nationally important marine wildlife, habitats, geology and geomorphology by placing restrictions on the type of activities which may take place within the Zones.
Adam Symons, Prospective Parliamentary Candidate for Torridge and West Devon, is delighted that the seas around Lundy have been given further protection, believing it to be a unique place and a significant attraction to the local economy. If this is the case, then it is possible that the designation of more waters within a Marine Conservation Zone may result in improved house prices in neighbouring areas as more people flock to visit.