English Nature reports on the Fal and Helford every six years

It follows a recommendation by English Nature that the practice should not be carried out in, or close to, Special Areas of Conservation.

Dredging is carried out in the rivers Fal and Helford to ensure vessels can travel safely through the waterways.

It is licensed and ports must prove the environment is not adversely affected.

English Nature reports on the condition of the Fal and Helford conservation areas every six years.

The most recent assessment found that while most of the site was in a favourable condition the dredging is likely to have a significant effect on the environment in the future.