Project part-financed by the European Union (European Regional Development Fund)

The Interreg IVB North Sea Region Programme


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The authors are solely responsible for the content of this report. Material included herein does not represent the opinion of the European Community, and the European Community is not responsible for any use that might be made of it.
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Analysis of the TIDE Estuarine Conflict Matrices

2b. Research Aims

One of the main aims of TIDE has been to develop a holistic management planning framework for estuaries using a multi-manager sectoral framework. However, the intention was to provide assistance where possible to the operation of existing frameworks and organisations, developing an inclusive management system involving the expertise and understanding of a range of stakeholder groups.

Effectively, TIDE was looking to assist in the development of a holistic management planning framework for estuaries building on existing structures and using a multi-manager sectoral framework.

Some research questions considered to be of relevance to estuarine management and integration include:
  • What should be legitimate management priorities for estuaries and how we can better integrate these in Natura 2000 estuaries?
  • Where are the main areas of spatial and sectoral ‘conflict’ and what methods can we employ to address these (e.g. which plans work)?
  • How do we integrate traditional planning and assessment structures with developing ecosystem services requirements?
In order to address the above, it is necessary to understand:
  • the management issues in estuaries (in this project the four TIDE estuaries);
  • the methods used to deliver the management;
  • the basis that management is delivered;
  • the efficacy of the management tools;
  • the best tools/plans available to meet these needs;
  • gaps in management.
In addressing these questions, a conflict matrix approach was identified as of value in addition to a review of the body of estuarine system legislation and organisational remit for management for the four TIDE estuaries. Further analysis has also been undertaken in relation to the content and efficacy of estuarine plans derived from this review, using a Strength, Weakness, Opportunity, Threat (SWOT) approach. This strand of the analysis is reported in Boyes et al., 2013, but with outcomes were applicable integrated into the results of the conflict matrix analysis and conclusions later in this report.


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