20 March 2006

A change at the helm for marine aggregates association

With all eyes on some of the most significant developments for Britain's built environment in years, the need for aggregates has never been clearer. The British Marine Aggregate Producers Association (BMAPA), which this month welcomes a new chairman, is looking to reinforce the importance of marine-sourced aggregates in helping to make the Government's ambitious construction plans a reality.

With over 20% of sand and gravel used for construction throughout England and Wales arriving from the sea bed, rising to a third in the south east, new BMAPA Chairman Kevin Seaman, of United Marine Aggregates, is looking to raise awareness of the industry. "Marine aggregates underpin some of our most high-profile structures, alongside those we all take for granted: our homes, schools and hospitals. With formidable construction projects on the horizon such as the Olympic parks and the expansion of the Thames Gateway, the need for aggregates will not abate, and marine supplies will continue to play a major role, particularly in the south east."

Kevin Seaman's chairmanship began on 1 March, following the completion of two years' tenure by previous Chairman, the Brett Group's Martin Drury. Kevin's role is complemented by the recently-appointed BMAPA Director Mark Russell, whose post sees him engage with all of the association's key stakeholders and regulators.

A number of key challenges exist for the new Chairman and Director to tackle over the next few years, as the marine aggregate sector prepares for some fundamental changes to the policy and regulatory environment it operates under.

Government will be consulting on new Statutory Dredging Regulations, which once enacted will see the sector operating under a statutory regulatory regime for the first time. With a number of the industry's existing production licence areas requiring renewal before 2013, the new regime will play a key role in the future of the sector.

At the same time, broad scale changes are anticipated in UK and European marine policy, planning and regulation. A Marine Bill is being developed by UK Government to integrate management of all marine activities and interests - (including aggregates), while in Europe new policy initiatives are also emerging.

Commenting on his appointment as Chairman, Kevin Seaman said: "While the British marine aggregate industry is recognised as a professional and responsible sector, there are always new challenges to tackle as we seek to secure the necessary new permissions and renewals that will be required to maintain our contribution to Britain's construction requirements. I have no doubt that through the efforts of the association we shall be able to play a key role in helping to shape our future."

ENDS

If you need any more information, please contact our Press office or return to the News homepage