The Solent Forum
Working in partnership for the future
Seascape restoration, the process of halting and reversing the degradation of marine and coastal environments, can provide numerous benefits to people and nature. The central south coast of England (Hampshire, Isle of Wight and Sussex) has more active and planned seascape restoration projects than anywhere else in the UK. It is also the focus of extensive restoration research activities.
The Solent to Sussex Bay Seascape Restoration Inventory is the first publicly accessible inventory of seascape restoration activities covering the Solent to Sussex Bay region. It has been compiled in collaboration with the Solent Forum and the Sussex Marine and Coastal Forum to provide interested stakeholders with the key information needed to engage with all restoration practitioners and researchers in the Solent to Sussex Bay area. It is composed of two parts: 1) An inventory of planned, in progress and completed applied restoration and research projects across the Solent to Sussex Bay region to help interested stakeholders understand how their work aligns with other projects in the area; and 2) A directory of organisations and individuals actively involved in seascape restoration in Solent to Sussex Bay including a brief outline of their research and/or practical focus. This will help interested stakeholders to identify potential project partners for future collaboration.
The UK Seascape Restoration Research Network will periodically update the inventory to ensure it remains comprehensive and up to date. You can also submit new projects at any time using this google form. If you would like to amend an entry in the inventory please contact Samuel.Winton@port.ac.uk.
The UK Seascape Restoration Research Network was founded in January 2023 by five south coast research institutions (University of Portsmouth, University of Sussex, University of Brighton, University of Surrey and the National Oceanography Centre in Southampton) in collaboration with several public and private sector organisations. With the recent increase in coastal restoration initiatives within Hampshire, Sussex and the Isle of Wight, this partnership aims to connect existing seascape restoration projects and formulate a synchronised strategy for future seascape restoration research. We hope to grow this network over the coming years to include all stakeholders who actively participate in local seascape restoration activities.
Aquatic Research And Knowledge-Exchange (ARK)
CHASM - Crusaceans, Habitat And Sediment Movement
Creation of saltmarsh using BUDS
Hamble Saltmarsh Restoration - Project 1
Hurst Spit to Lymington Strategy
INTERTIDAL SEAGRASS RESTORATION IN THE SOLENT: First steps with the dwarf seagrass Zostera Noltei.
Langstone Village - Saltmarsh Restoration Feasibility Study
MARINEFF Oyster Restoration Reef
North Portsea Island FCERM Scheme - Bird Island within Langstone Harbour
Passive Restoration Trial - Hamble River, UK
Propagation of Saltmarsh Vegetation
Saltmarsh Restoration - BuDs trial piloting the saltmarsh restoration dragbox
Seagrass Ocean Rescue - Solent Project
Solent Oyster Restoration Project
Project Type: Applied Restoration - Any project, including pilot and experimental projects, which directly involves in-situ restoration activity occurring
Contributing Organisations/ Authors:
University of Sussex ▼Project Location: West Sussex/East Sussex Coastal Zone
Habitat or Ecosystem Focus: Kelp
Project Status/ Dates: Status - In Progress, Project Dates - July 2021 - July 2026
Project Finance: Funder and finance arrangements - Blue Marine Foundation, PhD 1 funding (SoCoBio DTP), PhD 2 funding (University of Sussex)
Consents and Licencing requirements:
Relevant Links: https://youtu.be/h1QhBwaVT6M
Project Description/Research Abstract: The University of Sussex Aquatic Research And Knowledge-Exchange (ARK) group is led by Professor Mika Peck (m.r.peck@sussex.ac.uk) and Dr Valentina Scarponi (v.scarponi@sussex.ac.uk). It engages undergraduates and postgraduate students in research to monitor the recovery Sussex coastal waters following implementation of the trawler exclusion zone in 2021.Current projects include;
1) Monitoring recovery of marine life since the introduction of the trawling byelaw. using BRUVs (Baited Remote Underwater Videos) and eDNA (environmental DNA) [PhD Alice Clark, Supervisors; Prof Mika Peck, Co-Supervisors Dr Ian Hendy, Dr Reuban Shipway]
2) Understanding the impact of Suspended Particulate Matter on recovery of the Sussex kelp ecosystem. The project provides a baseline understanding of the sediment budget, profile and dynamics within Sussex Bay and gain an understanding of potential ecotoxicological impacts of suspended sediments on kelp [PhD Marianne Glascott, Supervisor; Prof Mika Peck, co-supervisors; Tim Cane, Dr Chris Yesson]
3) Understanding recovery, population changes and habitat use of shark and ray species resident to the Sussex coast [Dr Valentina Scarponi)
Key Project Achievements: 1. Doctoral student training, Masters Student training and Undergraduate student training in Marine monitoring
2. Standardised annual monitoring program to assess effectiveness of recovery of aquatic marine biodiversity following trawler exclusion
Key lessons Learned/Key Research Findings and Recommendations:
Website: https://peninsulapartnership.org.uk/projects/chasm/
Project Type: Research - Any laboratory or desk based research, including scoping, feasibility and assessment projects, where no in-situ restoration occurs
Contributing Organisations/ Authors:
Chichester District Council ▼Project Location: West Sussex
Habitat or Ecosystem Focus: Crabs, lobsters, sediment, sea water
Project Status/ Dates: Status - In Progress, Start Date - Jan 2020
Project Finance: Funder and finance arrangements - The CHASM project is currently unfunded though a project bid has been submitted to NERC. The outcome will be known in Jun 2023. Small scale funding has been acquired from local Trusts including Sussex Wildlife Trust. Volunteer divers have been instrumental in the project to date, and we have received extensive help from the Environment Agency. Analysis work has been undertaken by university research interns and students.
Consents and Licencing requirements: Landowner consent for location and deployment of monitoring units
Relevant Links: CHASM Project Report 2020/21: https://peninsulapartnership.org.uk/projects/chasm/chasm-report-2020-2021/ CHASM film 2022: https://peninsulapartnership.org.uk/projects/chasm/chasm-film/ CHASM event 2022 https://peninsulapartnership.org.uk/projects/chasm/2022-chasm-event/
Project Description/Research Abstract: CHASM is an informal partnership of fishermen, local organisations and universities working to examine issues raised by the fishermen of Selsey Bill in response to the fishermen’s questions:
• Why are there so few crabs and lobsters?
• Why is there so much sediment?
The key aim is to better understand the issues, and work towards solutions. In working towards this further work is needed to better understand the lifecycles of the species affected, water quality changes, and wider effects such as dredging or dredged spoil disposal.
Key Project Achievements: Key long-term aims of the CHASM project:
1. To understand the environmental, physical and climatological changes that have taken place in the Selsey crab and lobster fishing grounds
2. To determine whether the marine environment and fishing grounds have been impacted by recent environmental inputs.
3. To understand whether the negative effects on the Selsey fishing industry can be mitigated.
4. To gain greater support and understanding of the marine environment from local communities, visitors and authorities by improving understanding of the benefits and challenges of the open coast through partnerships and education programmes onshore and underwater.
5. Develop affiliations with other local initiatives including the Selsey Bill and the Hounds MCZ, the Sussex Kelp Restoration Project, CHaPRoN and Sussex Bay.
Key lessons Learned/Key Research Findings and Recommendations: Summary of work to date:
• Increased storminess
• Increased sea surface temperature
• New parasite in edible crabs – Selsey only
• Heavy metals present in lobsters
• Clear water species replaced by turbid water species
• Increased coarseness of seabed sediment
• Depleted dissolved oxygen levels
• Imposex in dog whelks but not in edible whelks
Project Type: Applied Restoration - Any project, including pilot and experimental projects, which directly involves in-situ restoration activity occurring
Contributing Organisations/ Authors:
Fathom Ecology ▼Project Location: Birdham, Chichester Harbour
Habitat or Ecosystem Focus: Salt Marsh
Project Status/ Dates: Project Status - Completed, Project Dates - Start 2018, completed 2022
Project Finance: Project funder and finance arrangements - Landowner funded
Consents and Licencing requirements: MMO
Relevant Links:
Project Description/Research Abstract: Use of BUDS - Action level 2 for the creation of saltmarsh habitat
Key Project Achievements: Saltmarsh successfully colonised
Key lessons Learned/Key Research Findings and Recommendations:
Project Type: Applied Restoration - Any project, including pilot and experimental projects, which directly involves in-situ restoration activity occurring
Contributing Organisations/ Authors:
National Trust ▼Project Location: East Head, West Wittering
Habitat or Ecosystem Focus: Sand dunes
Project Status/ Dates: Project Status - In Progress, Project Date 31/08/2023
Project Finance: Project Budget - £10,001-£50,000, Funder and Finance Arrangements - Funding from Bird Aware Solent small projects funding pots
Consents and Licencing requirements: SSSI consent
Relevant Links:
Project Description/Research Abstract: The aims of the project is to provide an alternative route through the sand dunes at East Head to minimise disturbance to known high tide roosts for wintering birds.
Key Project Achievements:
Key lessons Learned/Key Research Findings and Recommendations:
Project Type: Applied Restoration - Any project, including pilot and experimental projects, which directly involves in-situ restoration activity occurring
Contributing Organisations/ Authors:
Fathom Ecology ▼Project Location: Hamble, Lower Swanick
Habitat or Ecosystem Focus: Salt Marsh
Project Status/ Dates: Project Status - In Progress, Project Start Date - 2021
Project Finance: Project funder and finance arrangements - Landowner funded
Consents and Licencing requirements: Hamble Harbour Authority, Fareham BC
Relevant Links:
Project Description/Research Abstract: Restoration of a degraded saltmarsh
Key Project Achievements: Prevention of erosion and ongoing creation of habitat colonised by saltmarsh vegetation
Key lessons Learned/Key Research Findings and Recommendations: Saltmarsh restoration can be time consuming
Website: https://www.hurstspit2lymington.co.uk/
Project Type: Applied Restoration - Any project, including pilot and experimental projects, which directly involves in-situ restoration activity occurring
Contributing Organisations/ Authors:
Environment Agency ▼Project Location: Hurst Spit to Lymington, New Forest Coastline
Habitat or Ecosystem Focus: Seagrass, Salt Marsh, coastal grazing marsh, saline lagoons
Project Status/ Dates: Status - Planned, Project Dates - Strategy to be completed 2025 - projects business case then onwards
Project Finance: Funder and finance arrangements - Central Government Funding and contributions and investment from elsewhere
Consents and Licencing requirements: Likely require FRAP, MMO and NE consents. HRA will be required as well.
Relevant Links:
Project Description/Research Abstract: The Hurst Spit to Lymington Strategy is looking at a sustainable future for this stretch of coastline over the next 100 years. With SLR and CC there is a direct impact on the local habitats and as part of the project the aim is to look at how best to maintain, restore and create new habitat due to the legal requirements under the Habs Regs. There will also be smaller section of habitat creation for offsetting or BNG requirements.
Key Project Achievements: Project Objectives
The FCERM strategy investment objectives are to put in place a framework which investigates and evaluates options to identify how to:
a) Provide greater resilience to communities, property and infrastructure by managing the risk of flooding and erosion, while providing adaptability to climate change.
b) Protect and enhance the natural environment and wildlife and support natural processes.
c) Promote FCERM solutions in ways that contribute to carbon reduction including solutions with potential to capture and store carbon through habitat creation.
d) Promote FCERM solutions that align with partner authority plans in terms of their social, recreational, commercial and cultural benefits.
e) Develop a plan to implement the Strategy that includes a programme of works over the short /medium term that is achievable and affordable.
Key lessons Learned/Key Research Findings and Recommendations: Work in progress as strategy not due for completion until 2025. Strategy will make recommendations only
Project Type: Applied Restoration - Any project, including pilot and experimental projects, which directly involves in-situ restoration activity occurring
Contributing Organisations/ Authors:
Fathom Ecology ▼Project Location: East Coast Hayling Island
Habitat or Ecosystem Focus: Seagrass
Project Status/ Dates: Project Status - In Progress, Project End Date - 2025
Project Finance: Project Budget - <£10,000, Project funder and finance arrangements - Grant funding from Solent Forum
Consents and Licencing requirements: Natural England
Relevant Links:
Project Description/Research Abstract: The dwarf seagrass Zostera Noltei is an ecological engineer providing a wealth of ecosystem services including:
• Providing food and nursery grounds to ecologically and commercially important fish species.
• Supporting rare and protected bird species notably Dark Bellied Brent Geese Branta bernicula, a feature of the Solent SPA.
• Stabilising sediments, preventing erosion and playing an important role in coastal protection.
• Improving water quality by removing excess nutrients; and
• Sequestering carbon thus helping to combat the climate emergency.
Despite providing physical, biological, economic, and social benefits, the dwarf seagrass has suffered worldwide declines because of habitat loss and eutrophication (Valle et al, 2011). In the Solent dwarf seagrass habitat continues to be lost and fragmented (Marsden & Chesworth 2014, Fathom Ecology Limited 2020).
As seagrasses decline, their importance is being increasingly recognised by conservationists and restoration efforts are being attempted worldwide. To date restorations in the UK have focused on eelgrass; Zostera marina, a closely related larger species of seagrass that typically grows beneath the low tide mark.
This project aims to take the first steps in the restoration of the Solent’s dwarf seagrass, by identifying locations within Chichester harbour where restoration could be attempted, and the species thrive.
According to literature, optimal survival of transplants mainly depends on sediment type and the transplant site selection (Renton et al 2011, Valle et al 2011, Valle et al 2015). Suitable locations will be identified using topographical, sedimentological and hydrographical variables which are known to influence the distribution of dwarf seagrass. Sheltered locations are considered essential for the long-term survival of transplanted seagrass (van Katwijk et al., 2009, Valle et al 2015), as such efforts will be focused upon the east coast of Hayling Island. The east coast of Hayling is both sheltered from the prevailing winter storms and from the worst affects of eutrophication, being located some distance from each of the three Wastewater Treatment Works (Appledram, Bosham & Thornham), that discharge effluent into the harbour.
A total of twelve sites will be samples and at each site a core sample will be taken to measure particle size distribution (PSD) and organic content. Redox potential of the sediment and slope will also be measured at low tide. Locations that will be considered suitable for a translocation effort must score within the preferred tolerances of dwarf seagrass, those being sediments of between 1.47 to 5.9 phi, organic material of 1-10%, a redox potential of 185-331 mV and a mudflat between 0.5 and 1.5 CD, large enough to support a restoration trial (>120 m2) (Valle et al 2011).
If a suitable location is identified, then this project intends to trail 3 different restoration techniques to understand which is best suited for dwarf seagrass.
Three 10x10m2 plots adjacent to one another will be marked out at the suitable location. Each plot will trial a different planting technique to test the success and efficiency of each:
a. Seeds of the dwarf seagrass collected during the summer 2021 will be placed in small hessian bags filled with sand. The bags will be staked to the seabed using coir roles and hazel stakes.
b. Plugs of 7.5 cm diameter will be collected from seagrass bed at Mill Ryther. The plugs will contain shoots, roots, rhizomes and associated sediments. The plus will be extracted from Mill Rithe at low tide and transported to their new location for planting.
c. Rhizomes will be removed from intertidal mudflats at Mill Rythe, placed in hessian sacks filled with inert sand. These bags will be placed upon the surface sediments of plot 3
Key Project Achievements: ongoing
Key lessons Learned/Key Research Findings and Recommendations: Licensing is difficult
Project Type: Research - Any laboratory or desk based research, including scoping, feasibility and assessment projects, where no in-situ restoration occurs
Contributing Organisations/ Authors:
Havant Borough CouncilProject Location: Langstone Village in Chichester Harbour
Habitat or Ecosystem Focus: Salt Marsh
Project Status/ Dates: Status - In Progress, Project dates - Feasibility report published August 2022.
Project Finance: Project Budget - £10,001-£50,000, Funder and finance arrangements - Environment Agency - Water Environment Improvement Framework (WEIF)
Consents and Licencing requirements:
Relevant Links:
Project Description/Research Abstract: This feasibility study aims to assess how valid and practical the delivery of saltmarsh restoration methods in front of Langstone village is and review potential benefits whilst sustaining the saltmarsh habitat for the future.
This study is expected to be the first phase of a longer-term restoration project to protect and improve the Langstone village saltmarsh area should it be found to be a viable approach. Restoration activities include making the existing habitat more resilient to prevent further loss and encouraging recolonisation to allow the saltmarsh to expand. This will promote the retention of incoming sediment and expand the saltmarsh to increase carbon sequestration and the binding of nutrients.
This study has five main objectives, which are:
1. Review the existing literature and data for the Langstone area in relation to historic saltmarsh extent, quality and threats;
2. Review existing guidance and initiatives for the restoration of saltmarsh, including the potential for Beneficial Re-use of Sediments (BUDS);
3. Review the ecosystem services and natural capital benefits of saltmarsh such as carbon sequestration, coastal protection, water quality improvements and biodiversity net gain and use this to identify beneficiaries and potential funding / revenue streams for saltmarsh restoration actions.
4. Identify restoration measures that could be implemented, both in the immediate short-term and medium to longer-term, to deliver sustainable saltmarsh restoration to aid recovery and promote saltmarsh habitat recreation and resilience at Langstone village, together with potential funding opportunities including green finance; and
5. Identify recommended next steps for the implementation of saltmarsh restoration measures, including methods and likely costs.
Key Project Achievements: Feasibility study report complete - now considering next steps.
Key lessons Learned/Key Research Findings and Recommendations:
Website: https://saveourseabed.co.uk/
Project Type: Applied Restoration - Any project, including pilot and experimental projects, which directly involves in-situ restoration activity occurring
Contributing Organisations/ Authors:
Natural England ▼Project Location: Solent Maritime Special Area of Conservation
Habitat or Ecosystem Focus: Seagrass
Project Status/ Dates: Status - In Progress, Project Dates - July 2019 - October 2024
Project Finance: Project Budget - >£1,000,000, Funder and finance arrangements - Funded by the EU LIFE programme and partner bodies
Consents and Licencing requirements: Marine licences required for seagrass planting
Relevant Links: Infographics on seagrass and maerl (downloadable here: https://saveourseabed.co.uk/about-our-seabed/seagrass-maerl/) Guide on Advanced Mooring Systems (https://saveourseabed.co.uk/protecting-our-seabed/recreational-boating/mooring/) Research and Recreational Activity Surveys (https://saveourseabed.co.uk/protecting-our-seabed/research/)
Project Description/Research Abstract: LIFE Recreation ReMEDIES is a £2.5 million, four-year marine conservation partnership project to Save Our Seabed at five Special Areas of Conservation in Southern England. ReMEDIES stands for Reducing and Mitigating Erosion and Disturbance Impacts affEcting the Seabed.
The seabed is a vast, mostly hidden environment and few people know about its sensitive features, their location, and importance. On a healthy seabed, vital habitats like seagrass can flourish, which provide nursery grounds for young fish - including many commercially important species such as pollock, plaice and herring – offer food and shelter for protected creatures, help to reduce coastal erosion, clean surrounding seawater, and capture and store carbon.
The ReMEDIES partnership wants everyone to enjoy the water while considering and conserving habitats and species beneath the waves. ReMEDIES is seeking to protect the seabed and help people reduce their impacts on it by raising awareness of the importance of sensitive habitats like seagrass and highlighting their locations, sharing best practice guidance and trialling innovative restoration methods and advanced mooring systems.
Key Project Achievements: Key Aims:
- Reduce recreational pressures on sensitive habitats
- Restore and protect sensitive habitats
- Promote awareness of these habitats and their importance
Key Actions:
- Install Advanced Mooring Systems (AMS)
- Put Voluntary No Anchor Zones (VNAZs) in place
- Host webinars and create guides for boaters to share best practice for the environment
- Trial planting methods for both seagrass seeds and seedlings
- Host webinars to raise awareness of sensitive habitats
- Attend and give talks at public engagement events
- Run workshops and sessions at local schools
- Monitor and survey extent and quality or sensitive habitats and recreational activity
Key lessons Learned/Key Research Findings and Recommendations:
Website: http://marineff-project.eu/en/
Project Type: Applied Restoration - Any project, including pilot and experimental projects, which directly involves in-situ restoration activity occurring
Contributing Organisations/ Authors:
Builders for Society [Caen France]Project Location: Calshot, Solent
Habitat or Ecosystem Focus: Oysters
Project Status/ Dates: Status - Completed, Project Dates - April 2018-March 2023
Project Finance: Project Budget - >£1,000,000, Funder and finance arrangements - EU Interreg
Consents and Licencing requirements: MMO
Relevant Links: see: http://marineff-project.eu/en/
Project Description/Research Abstract: The Marineff project is a collaboration between France and the UK with the goal of developing coastal infrastructure to enhance and protect the ecological status of cross-channel coastal waters. Today, coastal infrastructure (such as the seawalls, quays, piers, groynes, and moorings) do not incorporate the enhancement of coastal and transitional water ecosystems.
The project aims to produce new ecological enhancement units to improve the ecological status of coastal and transitional watercourses, as well as professionals and stakeholders in the process. Improvements in the ecological status of the coastal infrastructure will be measured at a minimum of 15% compared to the original coastal infrastructure state.
The INTERREG VA France (Channel) – England co-funded by the ERDF and 9 French and British partners.
Key Project Achievements: see: http://marineff-project.eu/en/
Key lessons Learned/Key Research Findings and Recommendations: see: http://marineff-project.eu/en/
Project Type: Applied Restoration - Any project, including pilot and experimental projects, which directly involves in-situ restoration activity occurring
Contributing Organisations/ Authors:
Coastal Partners ▼Project Location: Langstone Harbour
Habitat or Ecosystem Focus: Bird High Tide Roost.
Project Status/ Dates: Status - Planned, Project Dates - 1st April 2023 - 30th September 2024
Project Finance: Project Budget - £100,001-£500,000, Funder and finance arrangements - Environment Agency Water Environment Improvement Fund (WEIF) & Flood and Coastal Erosion Risk Management Grant in Aid (Environmental Statutory Allowance), Bird Aware Solent (for interpretation)
Consents and Licencing requirements: Planning Permission, Marine Licence and Flood Risk Activity Permit exemption.
Relevant Links:
Project Description/Research Abstract: A limiting factor to the protected sites, is the lack of undisturbed bird roosting sites around the harbours. As part of the NPI works, the team have designed a partial inland realignment of the FCERM defences, to give space for the construction of a new bird island, the core of which will be constructed using demolition materials. This bird island has been specially designed with key regulators and stakeholders (including Natural England, RSPB and Langstone Harbour Board) to provide a new opportunity for roosting birds, that will enhance the network of protected sites and contribute to achieving the SPA conservation objectives. The proposed bird island will have an approximate footprint of 0.09ha, of which 0.03ha will be available to birds at high tide.
Key Project Achievements: Consent Applications submitted. Subject to approvals, construction expected to commence in April 2023.
Key lessons Learned/Key Research Findings and Recommendations:
Project Type: Applied Restoration - Any project, including pilot and experimental projects, which directly involves in-situ restoration activity occurring
Contributing Organisations/ Authors:
AQASS Ltd ▼Project Location: Hamble River
Habitat or Ecosystem Focus: Salt Marsh
Project Status/ Dates: Project Status - In Progress, Start Date - March 2020
Project Finance: Project Funder and Finance Arrangements - Grant and landholder funding
Consents and Licencing requirements: MMO (licence assesment), NE (HRA), Harbour Authority (Harbour Works permission)
Relevant Links:
Project Description/Research Abstract: Small scale passive sediment restoration trial using coir rolls, aiming to achieve sediment change promoting primary saltmarsh species recolonization. Monitoring with drone / aerial data for geomorphological / ecological change. Report being developed
Key Project Achievements: Ongoing
Key lessons Learned/Key Research Findings and Recommendations: Algal smothering hindering progress
Project Type: Research - Any laboratory or desk based research, including scoping, feasibility and assessment projects, where no in-situ restoration occurs
Contributing Organisations/ Authors:
Fathom Ecology ▼Project Location: Chichester Harbour
Habitat or Ecosystem Focus: Salt Marsh
Project Status/ Dates: Project Status - In Progress, Project Start Date - 2022
Project Finance: Project funder and finance arrangements - Privately funded
Consents and Licencing requirements:
Relevant Links:
Project Description/Research Abstract: Propagation of saltmarsh vegetation collected from strandline
Key Project Achievements: Propogation of 3 saltmarsh species
Key lessons Learned/Key Research Findings and Recommendations: Some species easy to propagate
Website: https://chapron.org.uk/projects/return-of-the-terns/
Project Type: Applied Restoration - Any project, including pilot and experimental projects, which directly involves in-situ restoration activity occurring
Contributing Organisations/ Authors:
CHaPRoNProject Location: Chichester Harbour
Habitat or Ecosystem Focus: Seabird roosting and nesting site
Project Status/ Dates: Status - In Progress, Project Dates - September 21 - March 23
Project Finance: Project Budget - £100,001-£500,000, Funder and finance arrangements - Green Challenge Recovery Fund
Consents and Licencing requirements: MMO licence, SSSI consent, landowner consent, planning
Relevant Links:
Project Description/Research Abstract: A nature recovery project that aims to help enhance tern populations in the Harbour, through the provision of increased high tide roosting and nesting sites for terns and to produce a landscape-wide nature recovery plan for the Chichester Harbour AONB. Naturally occurring tern nesting habitat in the harbour has been significantly declining in the last 20 years. Most sites are washed out on a high spring tide resulting in a rapid decline in fledging chicks.This project is seeking to address these pressures.
The Return of the Tern project aims to:
Provide shingle recharge at appropriate sites in the Harbour to enhance tern breeding habitat.
Build upon the Conservancy’s work deploying tern rafts around Chichester Harbour to support nesting pairs in the breeding season and fund 5 new rafts to be designed, built, and deployed across the harbour.
Increase our understanding of how terns use the Harbour and what they feed on, by conducting small fish population surveys
Establish a Southern Coastal Plain Nature Recovery area
Key Project Achievements: Shingle recharge of 500 tonnes at Stakes Island delivered
5 new tern rafts deployed during breeding season
Small fish survey completed
Nature Recovery Plan under development
Key lessons Learned/Key Research Findings and Recommendations:
Website: https://chapron.org.uk/restoring-saltmarsh/
Project Type: Applied Restoration - Any project, including pilot and experimental projects, which directly involves in-situ restoration activity occurring
Contributing Organisations/ Authors:
CHaPRoNProject Location: Chichester Harbour
Habitat or Ecosystem Focus: Salt Marsh
Project Status/ Dates: Status - In Progress, Project Dates - Start & delivered February 2023. Now monitoring for 6-12 months
Project Finance: Project Budget - £100,001-£500,000, Funder and finance arrangements - Endangered Landscape Programme as part of the Solent Seascape Project/Earth Change (private funding) /East Head Impact (Charitable grant)
Consents and Licencing requirements: MMO licence/SSSI consent/CHC works licence/landowner consents
Relevant Links:
Project Description/Research Abstract: This project has been developed collaboratively between CHaPRoN, Earth Change, Land and Water and ABPmer as part of the Solent Seascape Project. It has involved beneficially using dredged sediment from Chichester Harbour to enhance and protect the harbour’s eroding saltmarsh habitats at West Itchenor. In February 2023, a trial of a new technique using Land & Water’s innovative saltmarsh restoration drag box was undertaken to transfer dredged sediment to the site, with the aim of restoring an area of saltmarsh up to 0.7 ha using materials from nearby marinas.
The trial successfully delivered and transferred sediment to the site location which was then used to raise ground level to suitable elevations. The site is now being monitored for the next 6-12months.
Key Project Achievements: The trial has demonstrated that the concept of using the saltmarsh restoration drag box works in transferring the dredged sediment to the desired location and to suitable elevations. The site will now be monitored.
Key lessons Learned/Key Research Findings and Recommendations:
Project Type: Applied Restoration - Any project, including pilot and experimental projects, which directly involves in-situ restoration activity occurring
Contributing Organisations/ Authors:
WWF ▼Project Location: 3 sites in Solent: Thorness, St Helens, Beaulieu
Habitat or Ecosystem Focus: Seagrass
Project Status/ Dates: Status - In Progress, Dates - 1/4/21-31/12/24
Project Finance: Funder and finance arrangements - Philanthropic and corporate finance (Sky, Liz Earle, DPD, Carlsberg)
Consents and Licencing requirements: Marine licence, Crown Estate and private landholder permissions
Relevant Links:
Project Description/Research Abstract: Having just completed the scoping phase of the project to determine the potential and appetite for seagrass restoration in the Solent area through stakeholder engagement; and undertaking a habitat suitability assessments for seagrass restoration, the project is now moving into the delivery phase, having just recently secured permissions.
Project Aim: Provide a blueprint for seagrass restoration in England
Project objectives:
1. Design and prepare a major seagrass restoration experimental demonstration project in Southern England.
2. Collaborate with key stakeholders interested in seagrass restoration to improve knowledge sharing of seagrass restoration results (e.g. NE, HIOWWT, harbour authorities).
3. Roll out a major seagrass restoration experimental demonstration project in Southern England
4. Secure the future of healthy seagrass at restoration sites on the IoW and the Solent through ongoing stakeholder collaboration including extensive engagement with seagrass Citizen Science.
5. Contribute to improving the wider public awareness of seagrass across the Solent to help promote its protection in the long-term.
Key Project Achievements: N/A
Key lessons Learned/Key Research Findings and Recommendations: N/A
Website: https://www.bluemarinefoundation.com/projects/solent/
Project Type: Applied Restoration - Any project, including pilot and experimental projects, which directly involves in-situ restoration activity occurring
Contributing Organisations/ Authors:
Blue Marine FoundationProject Location: Solent
Habitat or Ecosystem Focus: Oysters
Project Status/ Dates: Project Status - In Progress, Start Date - 2015
Project Finance: Funder and finance arrangements - Charitable donations, Endangered Landscapes Programme
Consents and Licencing requirements: MMO - Marine Licence: deposition of oysters and cultch to four harbours and estuaries within the Solent, Cefas/Fish Health Inspectorate - Aquaculture Production Business: oyster culture systems at six locations within the Solent, Natural England - SSSI Consent: ORNEC activities (drone flights)
Relevant Links: Project Overview - https://www.bluemarinefoundation.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/20211026_Solent-Oyster-Restoration-Project-1.pdf
Project Description/Research Abstract: Between 1972 and 2006, the Solent supported the largest native oyster fishery in Europe. In 1978, 450 vessels were involved in oyster fishing and 15 million oysters were removed in that year alone. However, since this peak, the oyster population has declined significantly and in 2013 the fishery collapsed. In the UK native oyster reefs have declined by 95 per cent as a result of overfishing, pollution, disease, habitat loss and other pressures. Native oysters are classified as a priority species in the UK’s Biodiversity Action Plan and restoration is a high priority at the national, European and global level. Globally, an estimated 85 per cent of oyster beds and reef habitats have been lost, making oyster beds one of the world’s most imperilled marine habitats.
Oysters are ecosystem engineers and provide a range of benefits to the environment and people. They improve water quality - a single oyster can filter 200 litres of water every day - provide habitat to other fish and marine life, and act as a natural defence to coastal erosion. Their value as a food source can be dated back to Roman times in the UK. Unfortunately, the loss of the native oyster has meant that much of these benefits have been lost in the Solent.
The Solent Oyster Restoration Project is restoring native oysters and the benefits they bring through four key interventions:
Oyster nurseries: a network of oyster nurseries – adult oysters placed in high densities – have been suspended below the surface of the water from pontoons working in partnership with marinas.
Oyster reefs: using shell and gravel (cultch) three hectares of oyster reef is being created in areas protected from fishing and restored with oysters to re-establish wild populations.
Restoration hatchery: in collaboration with the University of Portsmouth, local adult oysters are creating the next generation of oysters. These will then be deployed on to the newly formed reefs, significantly scaling up our restoration work.
Community outreach: through volunteer programmes and school visits, the project is raising awareness of the need for oyster restoration and its importance.
Key Project Achievements: 105,000 native oysters restored to the Solent, 2 restored native oyster reefs, 10 oyster broodstock sites, Over 300 volunteers have worked on the project, Over 100 marine species found living in the oyster cages
Key lessons Learned/Key Research Findings and Recommendations:
Project Type: Research - Any laboratory or desk based research, including scoping, feasibility and assessment projects, where no in-situ restoration occurs
Contributing Organisations/ Authors:
Dr Cathy LucasProject Location: Solent
Habitat or Ecosystem Focus: Water column
Project Status/ Dates: Status - In Progress, Project dates - Project start July 2022, Publication date Oct 2023
Project Finance: Project Budget - <£10,000, Funder and finance arrangements - Small grant from SMMI to fund project student to carry out inventory of research in the region
Consents and Licencing requirements:
Relevant Links:
Project Description/Research Abstract: Since the ~1980s there has been a wealth of research carried out in Southampton Water and the wider Solent Estuarine System, much of which is contained in the grey literature, including reports and numerous Undergraduate, Masters and PhD dissertations that have been supervised by staff at the University of Southampton, as well as published in the scientific literature. These studies have been wide-ranging including benthic and pelagic biodiversity and ecology, shellfish fisheries, multidisciplinary processes in the coastal zone including saltmarshes, intertidal mudflats, seagrasses, and studies on pollution in the region. There is a wealth of historical and contemporary information that could be invaluable in identifying baselines and informing new areas of research related to nature-based solutions and seascape restoration, but it runs the risk of being lost to the collective memory. The aim of the Solent Science Audit is to collate these papers, reports and dissertations to provide an easily-accessible repository of Solent-based studies.
Key Project Achievements: 1) Secured funding from SMMI to fund student intern to search and collate Solent projects.
2) First draft of spreadsheet of papers and reports, organised according to habitat and area of science (e.g., biology, chemistry, physical, human impacts).
Key lessons Learned/Key Research Findings and Recommendations: Successes - Good progress has been made so far, mainly with collating papers from the primary literature.
Challenges - While a number of reports and dissertations have been traced, there are still undoubtedly many more reports to find. Networking with interested parties is the most efficient and effective way of establishing a comprehensive database of Solent science research activity and knowledge.
Website: https://www.bluemarinefoundation.com/projects/solent-seascape-project/
Project Type: Applied Restoration - Any project, including pilot and experimental projects, which directly involves in-situ restoration activity occurring
Contributing Organisations/ Authors:
Blue Marine FoundationProject Location: Solent
Habitat or Ecosystem Focus: Oysters, Seagrass, Salt Marsh, seabirds nest
Project Status/ Dates: Status - In Progress, Dates - 2023-28
Project Finance: Project Budget - >£1,000,000, Funder and finance arrangements - Arcadia Endangered landscape
Consents and Licencing requirements: Consents and Licences were required
Relevant Links:
Project Description/Research Abstract: The Solent Seascape Project will be the first of its kind in the UK to initiate seascape scale recovery. Our long-term vision is to protect and restore at least 30 per cent of the Solent’s seascape, tipping the balance from a degraded state to a naturally expanding, connected and productive ecosystem. By restoring and connecting the Solent’s seascape, we will provide nature-based solutions to many of the issues currently affecting it and the people who depend on it, as well as helping to fight the impacts of climate change.
Key Project Achievements: Restoring habitats
Key lessons Learned/Key Research Findings and Recommendations:
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