THE government consultation on whether or not to create 41 new protected Marine Conservation Zones (MCZs) has just one week to run.

Six of the proposed sites are in Dorset, including one at Studland Bay and another covering the Purbeck Coast.

Conservationists have been pushing for additional protection along the Jurassic Coast, in particular Studland Bay, for decades.

However, some boat owners and local fishermen have expressed concerns about the possibility of a no-anchoring zone being introduced at Studland, which could form part of any MCZ status.

South Dorset MP Richard Drax has also asked Environment Secretary Michael Gove to confirm that none of the proposed MCZs will affect the livelihoods of Dorset fishermen.

Meanwhile, Dorset Wildlife Trust (DWT) has appealed for one last push from members of the public in support of the zones.

In a direct appeal to supporters DWT said: “The government is currently seeking views from the public on 41 proposed new Marine Conservation Zones (MCZ’s) in English waters. This will be the final chance to secure protection for these sites so this is an opportunity we can’t afford to miss, and we need your help to support marine wildlife in Dorset.

“Six of the 41 proposed sites are in Dorset: Albert Field; Purbeck Coast; South of Portland; Southbourne Rough; Studland Bay and West of Wight-Barfleur.

“These cover a wide range of underwater landscapes and habitats, from deep, tide-swept rocky cliffs to sheltered seagrass meadows. We need all 41 sites to be designated to ensure proper protection.”

Conservationists say the seagrass meadows at Studland Bay are vital for supporting marine wildlife, which includes the UK’s rare spiny seahorse.

Speaking as the MCZ consultation was launched, Dr Jean-Luc Solandt, MCS principal specialist, said: “While marine protection isn’t as simple to understand as the damage plastic is doing to our oceans, it is equally as important.

“These sites are home to some of our most familiar and also threatened marine wildlife - from oysters to dolphins - and need your support.”

MCZ status

The public consultation is open until July 20 on the DEFRA website.