Jonas Seafood, a well-known producer of dressed Cromer crab, is calling for compensation after a significant drop in its crab supply, which it attributes to nearby offshore wind farms. The Norfolk-based company reported a nearly 25% decline in its seasonal catch in 2025, putting its year-round operations at risk.
Managing director Kevin Jonas argued that his business should receive compensation similar to that provided to fishermen. “We are part of the industry and should be included in the support measures,” he said.
However, RenewableUK challenged this claim. According to their spokesperson, independent studies indicate that offshore wind farms along the Norfolk coast have minimal or even slightly positive effects on shellfish. “There would be no significant impact on local commercial fisheries,” they added.
Jonas highlighted past experiences where crab catches dropped during the construction of major wind farms. He pointed to the Sheringham Shoal project, built 17 years ago, and the Dudgeon and Race Bank wind farms, which became operational in 2017 and 2018, respectively. In each instance, crab numbers rebounded once construction finished.
He noted that recent cable installations from Hornsea Three coincided with another decline in crab supply. “It’s difficult to argue against the connection,” Jonas told BBC Radio Norfolk.
Jonas Seafood processes around 500 tonnes of shellfish every spring and summer, sourced from approximately 35 local fishermen operating between Brancaster and Eccles. The 2025 quota fell by 120 tonnes, posing a serious threat to the company’s freezing and dressing operations.
Jonas also emphasized that wind turbines block prime fishing areas for crabs and lobsters. “Closing would be devastating. We are persevering, but it’s clear that compensation for our company is warranted,” he added.
