After intensive and fruitful collaboration BSR countries agreed on coherent approach for MSP output data structure. The BSR MSP Data Expert subgroup had elaborated “The Guidelines on transboundary MSP output data structure” that were agreed by the joint HELCOM-VASAB MSP Working Group in its 17th meeting on 14-15 November 2018 in Riga.

The Guidelines set out technical requirements (data specification) for the interoperability and harmonization of spatial data sets corresponding to the transboundary/cross-border maritime spatial planning output data (MSP output data). The Guidelines prescribe how the GIS data, presenting MSP output data, could be structured in convenient and flexible way, so they can be comprehensible to stakeholders from other countries. In this regard the Guidelines aim to ensure the coherence of the maritime spatial plans and data availability across the Baltic Sea region, as well as support transboundary consultations.

The Guidelines indicate the next steps that need to be taken towards a common Baltic MSP web-map where MSP output data of all BSR countries will be displayed in a harmonized way.