DIVERS will be exploring the secrets of the seabed as a major scientific survey gets underway off the North-East coast.

Marine ecologists are to begin exploring the North Sea off County Durham to gather evidence as to how marine life is recovering from decades of industrial pollution.

The Durham Heritage Coast is one of five areas around the country to be included in a scientific survey to better understand the UK’s marine environment and help protect it for the future.

Professional divers and marine ecologists, commissioned by Wildlife Trusts around the country, are gathering evidence and data from areas where existing knowledge about marine habitats is limited.

A spokesman for Durham Wildlife Trust said: “Durham Heritage Coast is of particular interest as an example of nature’s ability to recover; just 20 years ago this site was desolate, smothered by decades of colliery waste dumping.

“Following the closing of the pits and the hard work of the Turning The Tide partnership, the most incredible transformation is happening beneath the waves.

“The rocky reefs, seaweeds and carpets of anemones are testament to the recovery potential of marine life when threats are minimised.

“The dive team should expect to find lobsters, little cuttlefish, kelp gardens, tiny nudibranchs and blue mussel beds alive with crabs and other marine life”.

The seabed off the Durham Heritage Coast is currently unprotected and the site is not yet officially proposed as a Marine Conservation Zone.

Durham Wildlife Trust is hoping that the dive team will be able to collect evidence for the Durham Heritage Coast to be declared a Marine Conservation Zone in future.

Dives will take place next month and the results of the survey are expected to be published next year.