Current Focus

The Nature Conservation Group work stems from its aim to provide a cost-effective mechanism to coordinate the implementation of cross-cutting nature conservation actions stemming from the many overlapping statutory and non-statutory documents. The first time the group met there was a facilitated session where members were asked what nature conservation objectives they wanted the group to achieve. These ideas were gathered into themes, these were then developed into draft projects proposals and initiative. These were then prioritised by the groups and work has been ongoing to implement them. The themes which were prioritised by the group were:

The ongoing work of the group is detailed below. The majority of this stems from the facilitated session, which includes the 3 themes which were prioritised and other suggested projects.

The development of a signposting database for biodiversity information - the first phase of this project will look at data streams and the best way of making the information available to planners and managers.

The production of guidance/information materials on the important habitats and species found in the Solent. These have been produced to ensure that coastal biodiversity information and issues are included in the 2nd round of Shoreline Management Plans (SMPs) and Local Development Frameworks (LDFs). This stems from the communication initiative. A Solent Habitat Information Pack has been produced which provides basic coastal habitat information inlcuding description, distribution and why it is important. It also details the threats facing each habitat and and the issues to be kept in mind when considering any development or activities in the coastal zone.

Another part of this initiative is the communication of biodiversity issues to the wider public. Members of the NC group have used SeaBritain 2005, organised low tide days and taken part in the International Festival of the Sea (IFOS) to implement this strand of the initiative.

Solent coastal BAP implementation - The group has considered the actions in the BAPs and SAPs which cover the Solent and produced a discussion paper on the issues which the group may be able to take forward at the Solent level. These included:

Set up a working group to assess impact of recreational activities on estuarine habitats and species;
Project looking at the problem of incremental loss through development;
Further work on the use of agri-environmental schemes for creation, restoration of all coastal BAP habitats;
Ensure that the SMP2 takes account of the objectives and actions within the coastal HAPs for the Solent

Ways to take these forward are being considered by the group.

Development of a wader roost strategy, similar to the Brent Goose Strategy. This project is now underway. For further information and to get involved please contact the Solent Forum office.

Good practice topics are explored by the group during the meetings. The first one looked at the beneficial use of dredged spoil for habitat creation or management. This has lead to the organisation of a Solent wide seminar on this topic which is likely to take place following the outcome of the maintenance dredging protocol.