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Navigating MMO Licensing with Confidence

Navigating MMO Licensing with Confidence

In the world of marine and coastal development, the Marine Management Organisation (MMO) plays a central role. Any project that falls under MMO jurisdiction (up to Mean high water spring level, and any area within the normal tidal limit of an estuary / river) — from ports and harbours to coastal defences and offshore structures — needs to comply with MMO licensing requirements. But while the licence might look like just another box to tick, in reality, it’s a complex and often challenging process that can shape the entire trajectory of a project.

What is an MMO Licence?

The MMO licence is a legal requirement for activities such as dredging, depositing materials, or building in coastal and offshore waters. It exists to balance development with protection of the environment, fisheries, navigation, and local communities.

Why it Matters

Obtaining an MMO licence isn’t simply about compliance. It’s about demonstrating that your project is well-planned, environmentally responsible, and technically sound. A robust application can reassure regulators, build community trust, and give funders confidence that risks are under control.

The Challenges

Securing approval often demands more than people expect:

  • Evidence and Data – Environmental impact studies, hydrodynamic modelling, structural assessments, and ecological surveys are often required.
  • Time and Coordination – Applications can involve multiple stakeholders, interlinked consents, and rounds of clarification that stretch timelines.
  • Regulatory Detail – Small gaps in data or missteps in procedure can stall progress, sometimes at significant cost.

How AWA Supports Clients

At AWA, we bring decades of coastal and structural engineering expertise to simplify the process:

  • Technical Strength – Our engineers prepare the rigorous calculations, drawings, and reports needed to meet MMO expectations.
  • Strategic Guidance – We advise clients early on where issues may arise, helping avoid costly delays.
  • Stakeholder Engagement – We work closely with regulators and partners, ensuring communication is clear and approvals stay on track.
  • End-to-End Support – From the first scoping conversations through to submission and beyond, we provide continuity and confidence.

Turning Licensing into an Advantage

Rather than viewing MMO licensing as an obstacle, we see it as an opportunity:

  • To demonstrate the integrity and sustainability of a project.
  • To embed resilience and environmental responsibility from the outset.
  • To reinforce credibility with investors, communities, and regulators.

Get in touch with us today to find out more about how we can help with your MMO licence.

Why choose AWA

AWA Consulting Engineers is a structural, civil, and marine engineering consultancy established in 1987, with a hard-won but deserved reputation for delivering excellence in our profession.

Our philosophy is simple: we put people first. This has resulted in a high number of repeat clients and an impressive track record of successful award-winning projects. We are proud to be professional, and approachable; we believe this makes us the ideal partner for your project.

AWA has technical teams in our offices located in Romsey, Hampshire and Bath, Somerset. We deliver services to clients typically across the South, South East and South West.

Our team includes both chartered structural engineers and chartered civil engineers committed to continuous professional development ensuring you benefit from up to date industry expertise, whatever your project entails.

Contact us today

To find out more about how AWA Consulting Engineers can help with your project, get in touch today. Email mail@awaengineers.com and one of the team will be in touch. Alternatively, call 01794 524447 to speak to a member of our team.

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