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The Northumberland Inshore Fisheries and Conservation Authority manages, regulates, and protects the inshore marine environment along the Northumberland coast, supporting our thriving coastal communities and marine ecosystems.
Who we are
NIFCA is proud to be one of 10 Inshore Fisheries and Conservation Authorities across England, forming a vital national network dedicated to the health and productivity of our coastline. Since our formation through the Marine and Coastal Access Act 2009, we have been safeguarding sea fisheries within six nautical miles of the Northumberland coast. Our mission is to ensure that sea fishing in Northumberland remains a thriving, sustainable tradition, protecting the delicate marine environment that supports our local way of life.
We stand at the intersection of the commercial and recreational fishing industry, environmental science, and public policy. While we operate as an independent organisation, our strength lies in our deep-rooted partnerships. By working hand-in-hand with local councils, government agencies, and the fishing community, we deliver management that is not only evidence-based but also reflects the unique character and needs of our region. Our work ensures that our seas are protected for today’s fishers and for the generations yet to come.
Why we are here
NIFCA’s primary role is to find the harmony between a thriving fishing industry and the long-term health of our ecosystems, ensuring that social and economic benefits are realised while simultaneously protecting the marine environment.
In practice, this means developing and enforcing local byelaws, monitoring fishing activity, gathering scientific evidence, and working directly with stakeholders to support compliance. Our decisions are informed by data, guided by legislation, and taken transparently in open consultation meetings.
Our goal is to ensure Northumberland inshore fisheries remain resilient, productive, and protected.
Passionate & professional
The strength of NIFCA lies in our diverse team of professionals who share a deep-rooted passion for the Northumberland coast. Our staff is comprised of dedicated Inshore Fisheries and Conservation Officers (IFCOs), ranging from environmental specialists and research leads to frontline enforcement experts, all supported by our vital administrative team.
Whether they are at sea conducting patrols, on the shore engaging with local fishers, or in the office coordinating regional policy, our team works year-round to make sure our waters remain healthy and productive. Combining scientific expertise with extensive local knowledge, the NIFCA team is your direct link to the management and protection of our district’s unique marine heritage.
The IFCA Network
NIFCA is one of 10 authorities across England working together to safeguard our seas. While we focus on the specific needs of the Northumberland coast, we collaborate nationally on policy, enforcement, and best practice to ensure that our local management remains at the forefront of marine conservation.
Many voices, one purpose
NIFCA is guided by a diverse board of members who bring a wealth of regional expertise to our decision-making. Our Authority is led by our Chair, Amelia Henderson, and is comprised of representatives from local councils and the Marine Management Organisation, alongside dedicated volunteers from the commercial and recreational fishing sectors and environmental groups.
This unique blend of voices, from experienced fishers and RNLI volunteers to elected officials, means that our work is grounded in local reality. By combining first-hand maritime knowledge with scientific and legal oversight, we ensure every decision is transparent, representative, and balanced to meet the specific needs of the Northumberland coast.
Local & national support
Our work to manage and protect sea fishing across the region is primarily sustained through the support of our two member councils: Northumberland County Council and North Tyneside Council. By utilising these local resources, we ensure that funding is reinvested directly into the safeguarding of our district’s waters and the communities that depend on them.
This core budget is bolstered by national support from Defra for vital conservation initiatives and specialised fisheries management plans. We also actively pursue external grants to fuel innovative research and sustainability projects.
How we operate
NIFCA operates within a robust framework of professional policies, ensuring every action we take is accountable and effective. Our governance is reinforced by a highly trained workforce and a proactive membership, both of whom benefit from continuous development and national expertise. As a statutory body, we are committed to the responsible use of public resources; our work is guided by published Annual Plans and verified by independent audits.
This disciplined approach ensures that our community can have full confidence in how we manage our assets and invest in the future of the Northumberland coast.
