Allonby locals split opinion over conservation zone

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The unblemished view from Allonby Beach Credit: ITV Border

Allonby beach, near Maryport, is well know for it's scenic outlook over the Solway Firth. But this time, the interest is on what's beneath the waves.

Allonby has been labelled as a Marine Conservation Zone, making it 1 of 24 new zones across the UK. The zone covers a 9km stretch of coast and 40 square kilometres of Irish Sea.

The bay is home to a colourful variety of sea-life, in particular the honeycomb-worm reefs - which are tens of metres wide.

The reefs provide a habitat for mussels and anemones whilst the sea bed itself is home to sea squirt and sponge.

Allonby beach has always been a popular destination for dog-walkers. Credit: ITV Border

But there are mixed feelings among the community about the conservation zone.

Some worry about the limitations the zone will put on fishing and shrimping, whilst others don't understand why it needs protected in the first place.