Portsmouth Water biodiversity projects boost wildlife and green spaces

Community conservation projects supported by Portsmouth Water are delivering benefits for wildlife, habitats and local communities across Hampshire and West Sussex.

The company says projects funded through its Biodiversity Grant Scheme have helped restore ponds, chalk grassland and recreational green spaces, while also encouraging greater community involvement in conservation.

The projects have been delivered by local environmental organisations and volunteers, with work focused on habitats facing pressure from development, climate change and invasive species.

On the Manhood Peninsula, volunteers have helped restore four neglected ponds through habitat management, species surveys and practical conservation work.

The work included scrub clearance, vegetation management and improvements to water flow, helping create better conditions for water voles and other wetland wildlife.

Early surveys have already recorded an increase in plant diversity.

In Slindon, the Downes Barn Chalk Grassland Creation Project has transformed a 700-square-metre area into developing species-rich chalk grassland.

Invasive scrub was removed, the underlying chalk was exposed and native seed mixes were introduced to encourage wildflowers and pollinators.

Portsmouth Water says species including common poppy have already started to establish at the site.

At Paulsgrove Chalkpit, restoration work has reopened 1.6 hectares of chalk grassland habitat by removing dense gorse and invasive vegetation.

The site provides habitat for orchids, butterflies and other specialist species, with long-term management planned to help protect it.

Meanwhile, work at Great Salterns Recreation Ground in Portsmouth has improved 1.5 hectares of land by restoring the balance between scrub and grassland.

Overgrown bramble has been cleared, improving access for visitors and creating more suitable conditions for wildlife.

Simon Deacon, Catchment and Environment Manager at Portsmouth Water, said: “We are delighted to have supported these fantastic projects through our Biodiversity Grant Scheme. Each project demonstrates how targeted conservation work, combined with the dedication of local volunteers and environmental organisations, can deliver tangible benefits for nature and communities alike.

“From restoring ponds and rare chalk grassland habitats to improving access to local green spaces, these initiatives are helping to create more resilient ecosystems and support the wildlife that depends on them. We look forward to seeing these sites continue to flourish in the years ahead.”

Portsmouth Water says the Biodiversity Grant Scheme forms part of its wider commitment to protecting and enhancing the natural environment across its supply area.

The scheme supports projects designed to deliver measurable improvements for biodiversity and environmental resilience.

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