An innovative project on the Sussex coast has been announced to enhance marine biodiversity and support wildlife.
Southwick Reef is a collaborative project set to launch in the summer of 2025.
The Shoreham Harbour Regeneration Board is funding it, Run in partnership with Adur and Worthing Councils, Brighton and Hove City Council, Sussex Bay, Sussex Dolphin Project and University of Brighton.
The project aims to boost the number and diversity of species in the area and enhance ecosystem resilience.
To ensure the project's success, a baseline biodiversity survey of the existing harbour wall and surrounding foreshore will be conducted.
This survey will inform design decisions and provide a benchmark for tracking the project's regenerative efforts.
Additionally, this research will form part of a University of Brighton PhD project, offering valuable academic insight into the effectiveness of the structures.
The results and performance of Southwick Reef will be shared with other ports and harbours across the UK and globally, contributing knowledge to similar conservation efforts.
Tom Willis, Chief Executive at Shoreham Port commented “We are thrilled to have brought together such an inspiring group of local organisations to embark on this collaborative project. Southwick Reef underscores the organisations’ shared ambition to enhance the marine environment whilst fostering greater public engagement in conservation and sustainability. We hope that over time Southwick Reef provides a further reason for people to visit the area, enabling everyone to experience first-hand the transformative potential of marine rewilding.”
Listen to the full interview as V2 News Editor Philip Keeler chats with Brian Rousell – The Director of Engineering at Shoreham Port.
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