In an effort to raise levels of protection and increase the number of potential lines of action, the area of the marine park covering the lslas Columbres islands is expected to be extended to almost double its current surface area of some 1,200 hectares. The new conservation area will be given the official status of Marine Reserve, bestowing maximum environmental protection upon the islands in the face of major pressure from fishing and leisure activities. The final decision on the expansion project is expected to be taken next March, once the previously commissioned reports on the flora and fauna have been duly studied. (más…)