Management Plan 2009-2014 - Chichester Harbour Conservancy

www.conservancy.co.ukMay 2009

Map 1: Chichester Harbour AONBReproduced from or based upon 2008 Ordnance Survey material with permission of the Controller of HMSO © Crown Copyright reserved. Unauthorised reproduction infringes CrownCopyright and may lead to prosecution or civil proceedings. West Sussex County Council Licence No. 100023447.

ContentsAcknowledgements.......................................................................................2Foreword.......................................................................................................2Chichester Harbour and the AONB Management Plan ................................3Part 1 - Background......................................................................................61. Special Qualities of Chichester Harbour AONB...................................62. The Vision for Chichester Harbour AONB ...........................................153. Managing Chichester Harbour AONB..................................................16Part 2 - Policies and Actions .........................................................................211. The Role of the Harbour Authority .......................................................212. The Land and Seascape......................................................................253. Nature Conservation............................................................................304. Farming and the Farmed Landscape...................................................345. The Historic Environment ....................................................................386. Buildings and Development.................................................................417. Running a Business in Chichester Harbour AONB..............................458. The Working Water - Fishing, Angling and Bait Digging.........................489. Water Quality and Waste Disposal ......................................................5110. Coastal Defence and Sea Level Rise................................................5411. Enjoying Chichester Harbour on the Water........................................5812. Enjoying Chichester Harbour from the Land......................................6213. Activities and Information...................................................................6614. Education...........................................................................................6915. Community Involvement ....................................................................72Part 3 - Implementation of the Management Plan ........................................75Part 4 - Monitoring, Review and Research ...................................................76Part 5 - Glossary of Terms ............................................................................81Part 6 - Appendices ......................................................................................83Appendix 1 - Chichester Harbour AONB Management Framework ........83Appendix 2 - The Regional Importance of AONBs ..................................86Appendix 3 - Planning Guidelines for Chichester Harbour AONB ...........88Appendix 4 - Chichester Harbour Conservancy Business Plan (2009-2014)..97Front cover: Matt Simmons Photography; inside back:Ali Beckett; outside back: Keven Osborne.Published by Chichester Harbour Conservancy 2008Printed by Sussex Litho on FSC approved paper.www.conservancy.co.ukMay 20091

AcknowledgementsChichester Harbour Conservancy has produced this Management Plan forChichester Harbour Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty 2009-2014 on behalf ofthe Local Authorities of Hampshire, West Sussex, Havant and Chichester. ThisManagement Plan follows the 2004-09 document which has been reviewed inaccordance with the requirements of the CRoW Act (2000). The Conservancywishes to thank the members of the Management Plan Steering Group for theirtime and support in overseeing the review process. In addition we wish to thankall partners and stakeholders who participated in the consultation process fortheir valuable feedback which was vital in ensuring the revised AONBManagement Plan represents the needs of the Harbour and AONB community.ForewordThe Chichester Harbour AONB Management Plan provides a framework for themanagement of Chichester Harbour AONB for now and for the future. This Planbuilds upon the success and experience of the past five years of delivering the2004-2009 AONB Management Plan.The Plan is the product of the partnership between Local Authorities, NaturalEngland, Chichester Harbour Conservancy and those who live, work and spendleisure time within Chichester Harbour AONB. This partnership has strengthenedover the past five years as members have worked together to deliver the policiesand actions contained within the previous Plan.The Plan seeks to strike a balance between the needs of those who live, workand enjoy the harbour, with the integrity of the protected habitats and specieswhich make up the rich and diverse land and seascape of Chichester HarbourAONB. The Plan also strives to encourage the sustainable and sensitiveenjoyment of the harbour and AONB, through education and awareness-raising,to safeguard its special qualities for future generations.Chichester Harbour AONB will face challenging times during the lifetime of thisManagement Plan. The ever-increasing development pressure with therequirement for new housing places a burden on an already stretched naturalresource and its related infrastructure. The uncertain impacts of climate changeand sea level rise will need to be better understood, with effective strategies putin place to adapt to, and mitigate for, the effects on the landscape, biodiversityand anthropogenic features of the AONB.By further strengthening our existing partnerships and reaching out to the AONBcommunity, the Conservancy will be well-placed to tackle these challenges andensure that Chichester Harbour AONB retains its unspoilt character and sense ofwilderness for both people and wildlife in years to come.Louise Goldsmith, Chairman of Chichester Harbour ConservancyKeven Osbornewww.conservancy.co.ukMay 2009

Chichester Harbour & the AONB Management PlanChichester Harbour and theAONB Management PlanThe AONB designationChichester Harbour Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) is one of 47AONBs in England, Wales and Northern Ireland and forms part of a wider familyof nationally protected landscapes, which include National Parks. There are 9AONBs and two National Parks wholly or partly within the South East of Englandcovering 35.8% of the region. The South East has one of the highest proportionsof land designated for its landscape quality. It also has one of the most buoyanteconomies and highest population densities (see Appendix 2 for furtherinformation on the regional importance of AONBs).The purposes of the AONB designation as defined by the CountrysideCommission 1991 statement (CCP 356) re-affirmed by the Countryside and Rightsof Way (CRoW) Act 2000:The primary purpose of AONB designation is to conserve and enhance natural beauty.In pursuing the primary purpose, account should be taken of the needs of agriculture,forestry, other rural industries and of the economic and social needs of localcommunities. Particular regard should be paid to promoting sustainable forms of socialand economic development that in themselves conserve and enhance the environment.View to Dell QuayRecreation is not an objective of designation, but the demand for recreation should bemet so far as this is consistent with the conservation of natural beauty and the needs ofagriculture, forestry and other uses.Chichester Harbour AONBChichester Harbour AONB was designated in 1964 under the National Parks andAccess to the Countryside Act 1949. In June 2000 Nick Raynsford (then PlanningMinister) made a statement in the House of Commons that confirmed that AONBsare equivalent to National Parks in terms of their landscape quality, scenic beautyand planning.Totalling 74km 2 , Chichester Harbour is the smallest AONB in the South Eastregion, yet is one of the most intensively used and offers a unique mix of sea,coast and land (see Map 1 showing AONB boundary), with 41% of its areacomprising water at high tide and an intertidal area covering 24km 2 .In addition to its AONB status, Chichester Harbour is of international importancefor its wintering bird populations, marine and coastal habitats and species asdesignated under EC Directives and the Ramsar Convention. There are alsoextensive nationally and locally designated sites for nature conservation – Sites ofSpecial Scientific Interest (SSSIs) and Local Nature Reserves (LNRs) andcounty-designated wildlife sites - Sites of Importance for Nature Conservation(SINCs) and Sites of Nature Conservation Importance (SNCIs). The AONB is richin subtidal and terrestrial archaeology, and boasts a proud history of boat buildingand sailing. See Maps 2-5 for further details.Chichester Harbour AONB is a major recreational boating harbour, and each year1.5 million people come to the AONB to enjoy activities both on and off the water.Many just come to walk and enjoy the peace and tranquillity the AONB has tooffer.Chichester Harbour AONB is home to a wide range of businesses, from thosedirectly linked to sailing to those which benefit from the annual influx of visitors,and those concerned with farming the high quality agricultural land.www.conservancy.co.ukMay 20093

Chichester Harbour & the AONB Management PlanThe development of the 2004-09 Management Plan was informed through aseries of eight Consultation Workshops held in 2002 and guided by the membersof the AONB Management Plan Steering Committee (West Sussex CountyCouncil, Hampshire County Council, Havant Borough Council, Chichester DistrictCouncil, Natural England and Chichester Harbour Conservancy). TheConsultation Workshops invited representatives of statutory and non-statutoryorganisations, local businesses, interest groups and community representativesto discuss the future management of the AONB and covered the following topics:Harbour ManagementNatural EnvironmentCulture and HeritageRecreationEducationCommunityCommercial UseFarming and LandscapeThe outcomes from the Consultation Workshops helped shape the Vision forChichester Harbour AONB 2024, identified the Main Issues which needed to beaddressed in the management of Chichester Harbour AONB and helped todevelop the Policies and Actions which have been implemented during the pastfive years. These Main Issues have been reviewed and included in thisManagement Plan where still considered relevant, and new issues have beenadded where identified through the consultation process and from experience ofthe first five years of delivering the AONB Management Plan. Where the Issuesraised do not directly relate to resulting Polices and Actions, their general themehas been incorporated as far as possible.Langstone MillThe Management Plan contains a shared Vision, Policies and Actions which buildon the achievements of the previous Chichester Harbour Management Plan(2004-09) and the work of the Conservancy and its partners since 1971. It isintended to formulate the actions and future policy-setting of the Local Authoritiesand other relevant authorities and public bodies as part of their ‘duty of regard’ forthe AONB, as required under Part IV of the CRoW Act 2000.In addition, the Management Plan provides the central framework from whichother key documents have evolved, including the Chichester Harbour AONBPlanning Guidelines (see Appendix 3) and the Chichester Harbour ConservancyBusiness Plan (see Appendix 4).Robert ComlayThe Management Plan is five years in duration and covers the period from April2009 to March 2014. Each year the Management Plan Steering Committee,comprising West Sussex and Hampshire County Councils, Havant Borough andChichester District Councils, Natural England and Chichester HarbourConservancy works together to produce an Annual Progress Report summarisingthe yearly progress in implementing Actions by all partners. The ManagementPlan itself will be reviewed in its final year to help inform and develop the next fiveyear AONB Management Plan. Further details on the Implementation of theManagement Plan are given in Part 3.The AONB Management Plan review processThe AONB Management Plan Review Process S89 and S90 of the CRoW Actrequires Chichester Harbour Conservancy to undertake a review of theChichester Harbour AONB Management Plan at five-year intervals. The reviewprocess has been guided by a Steering Group comprising Chichester DistrictCouncil, Havant Borough Council, West Sussex County Council, HampshireCounty Council, Natural England, the Environment Agency and EnglishHeritage. The work has been carried out in accordance with guidance publishedby Natural England. The review was a ‘light touch’ process with limitedalterations to the structure of the Plan. The background information, Policiesand Actions were reviewed to ensure the Plan is up-to-date and relevant.Consultation was undertaken through the Conservancy and AdvisoryCommittees, Management Plan partners and stakeholders and the draft revisedPlan made publicly available. Responses were incorporated into the finaldocument, adopted by the Statutory Partners.Both a Strategic Environmental Assessment and Habitat RegulationsAssessment were carried out which demonstrated that no significantenvironmental impacts would arise as a result of the revised Plan.www.conservancy.co.ukMay 20095

Part 11Part I provides asummary of thespecial qualities ofChichester HarbourAONB as it is todayand looks to whatthe ManagementPlan aspires toachieve over thenext 20 years. It alsosets out theimportance ofpartnership workingin achieving this andthe legal andadministrativeframework withinwhich the Plan willbe delivered.1. Background - Special QualitiesSpecial Qualities ofChichester Harbour AONBA combination of special qualities makes Chichester Harbour a unique landscape.It is a dynamic estuary that has evolved through the actions of wind, wave andtide. The fingers of the sea reach into the land, creating sheltered open waterareas, contrasting with narrow channels. The meeting of land and water makeswide, flat mudlands and saltmarsh, supporting thousands of wintering waders andwildfowl. Chichester Harbour is designated under European Directives for itsnature conservation value and part of the Management Plan process will be tomaintain and improve this status. The area has a strong sense of wilderness,enhanced by the dunes and natural wooded shorelines fringing the waters aroundthe Harbour. This is a paradise for birdwatchers and walkers and an invaluableresource for environmental education and activities. The network of footpathsgives access to areas much prized by visitors. Refreshed and shaped by the flowof the tide, Chichester Harbour is a rare example of an undisturbed naturalcoastline on the built up south coast.The AONB has a largely flat landscape with highly productive farmland. Farminghas shaped the Harbour as land was claimed from the sea, creating coastalgrazing marshes. These are now an important component of the landscape and avaluable habitat for nature conservation. The landscape has changed as farmingmoved from animals to arable, and more recently to horticulture. This has createda less diverse farmed area but classic features such as sunken lanes, fieldboundaries and small woodlands still remain.The landscape is circled by the ‘whale backed’ South Downs, providing apicturesque backdrop to the land, sea and sky. This ever-changing scene is thesetting for a busy Harbour, no longer for commercial shipping but one of the mostimportant areas for water recreation in the country and an increasingly populardestination for tourists. It is estimated that visitor numbers exceed 1.5 millionannually and that recreation and tourism together makes a very significantcontribution to the regional and local economy.Mags FisherSailing and motor vessels of all types navigate the sheltered waters beforeventuring into the Solent and English Channel. Smaller boats move slowly downthe channels to the sheltered anchorage of East Head, going ashore to enjoy itssandy beaches. Dinghies race, darting between buoys, with straining sails andbillowing spinnakers chased by the wind and tide. The colours and movements ofthe boats add a lively dimension to the Harbour. This is a vital landscape,pleasing to the eye in its natural setting and animated recreation, bringing asense of tranquillity and well-being to the visitor.There are many links that set the landscape in a cultural and historic context. Thevillages have evolved over the centuries from clusters of houses and tidal millsidentified in the Domesday book.6 www.conservancy.co.ukMay 2009

Amanda Wiggins1. Background - Special QualitiesOystercatchersGeorge SpraggsThe historic parts of these settlements are usually located on, or very close to,the harbourside and were involved with trading, fishing and shipbuilding. Many ofthe villages are now conservation areas and make a significant contribution to thecharacter and value of the AONB. Protected landscapes such as AONBs areunder great pressure for new residential development as they are sought afterareas offering a better quality of life. Development control is essential to preventany loss of the special qualities of the AONB through this process. The villagecommunities of Chichester Harbour through their Parish Councils, AmenityGroups and support groups such as the Friends of Chichester Harbour haveguided and supported the management of the AONB.The Landscape Character of Chichester Harbour AONB has been defined in the2005 Landscape Character Assessment, produced in partnership betweenNatural England (then Countryside Agency), Chichester Harbour Conservancyand the four constituent Local Authorities. The document emphasises the specialqualities of the landscape and those forces that threaten them.Aerial view of Furzefield Creek‘In a brightening lightyou can see the lastof the winter birds,people starting to getout on the water andas the sun rises oncrisp clear days, youcan see all the wayto the Downs’Alison Fowler, CHC(Sussex Life, 2008)Matt Simmonswww.conservancy.co.ukMay 20097

Emma Millen1. Background - Special Qualities‘There is the excitment ofracing a modern dinghy athigh speed over the stretchesof open water, but equallythe quieter pleasure ofdrifting gently to the headof the many creeks’Liz Sagues(Country Life, 2008)Special Qualities of Chichester Harbour AONBThe unique blend of land and sea - especially the combination of largeopen water areas, narrow inlets and intimate creeks Threatened by climatechange, rising sea levels and inappropriate development.The frequently wooded shoreline These are narrow fringes sandwichedbetween rising sea levels and intensively farmed land, many have their rootsalready immersed in salt water and have only a limited life left.The flatness of the landform, unusual among AONBs, accentuates thesignificance of sea and tide and of distant landmarks across land andwater Inappropriate development intrudes into the landscape, seen from longdistances, and detracts from the historical features of interest.The open water of the central area of the Harbour is a microcosm of theopen sea beyond the harbour mouth, reflecting the clouds and sky, thewind and rain.An overall sense of wilderness within the seascape The naturalness thatcreates this sense is very dependent on maintaining natural processes andavoiding the dominance of man-made influences and structures.Particularly strong historic character and associations These links with ourcultural heritage are not always properly understood and could be used tohighlight the importance of protecting the landscape which provides theirsetting.Picturesque harbourside settlements Careful control of development isrequired if these harbourside villages are not to lose their character. The trendtowards large extensions and rebuilds creates a more urban feel to thelandscape.Wealth of flora and fauna, notably the vast flocks of wading birds, adds tothe richness and diversity of the landscape Chichester Harbour isinternationally important for its many species and habitats and these must begiven priority for protection. The health of the landscape can be measured bythe biodiversity the Harbour offers. Surveys and monitoring of species andhabitats form a vital part of ensuring the continued well-being of the AONB.The unspoilt character and unobtrusive beauty It is important that visitors tothe Harbour understand and value its special qualities. The promotion of thesespecial qualities should concentrate on raising visitors’ awareness rather thanattracting greater numbers.The harbour offers a very special sense of peace and tranquillity, largelyengendered by the gentle way it is used and the closeness to nature that isexperienced. People pressure, inappropriate development and pollution,particularly light and noise, can easily destroy this fragile value as caninappropriate activities.8 www.conservancy.co.ukMay 2009

1. Background - MapsMap 2: SPA, SSSI and Ramsar Designated AreasReproduced from or based upon 2008 Ordnance Survey material with permission of the Controller of HMSO © Crown Copyright reserved. Unauthorised reproduction infringes CrownCopyright and may lead to prosecution or civil proceedings. West Sussex County Council Licence No. 100023447.Map 3: SAC Designated AreaReproduced from or based upon 2008 Ordnance Survey material with permission of the Controller of HMSO © Crown Copyright reserved. Unauthorised reproduction infringes CrownCopyright and may lead to prosecution or civil proceedings. West Sussex County Council Licence No. 100023447.9

1. Background - MapsMap 4: LNR, SNCI and SINC Designated AreasReproduced from or based upon 2008 Ordnance Survey material with permission of the Controller of HMSO © Crown Copyright reserved. Unauthorised reproduction infringes CrownCopyright and may lead to prosecution or civil proceedings. West Sussex County Council Licence No. 100023447.10

1. Background - MapsMap 5: Historical and Archaeological FeaturesReproduced from or based upon 2008 Ordnance Survey material with permission of the Controller of HMSO © Crown Copyright reserved. Unauthorised reproduction infringes Crown Copyrightand may lead to prosecution or civil proceedings. West Sussex County Council Licence No. 100023447. Data sources 2008 Chichester District Council and Hampshire County Council11

1. Background - MapsMap 6: Intertidal Vegetation and HabitatData Source University of Portsmouth 200512

1. Background - MapsMap 7: Terrestrial Habitats and LanduseReproduced from or based upon 2008 Ordnance Survey material with permission of the Controller of HMSO © Crown Copyright reserved. Unauthorised reproduction infringes Crown Copyrightand may lead to prosecution or civil proceedings. West Sussex County Council Licence No. 100023447. Landuse/Habitat data (2002): © Hampshire Biodiversity Information Centre Partnership,Sussex Biodiversity Record Centre and West Sussex County Council.13

1. Background - MapsMap 8: Landscape Character Areas and TypesChichester Harbour AONB Landscape Character Assessment 2005. Chris Blandford Associates.Crown Copyright. Unauthorised reproduction infringes Crown Copyright and may lead to prosecutionor civil proceedings. Licence Number AR100017241.A-I: Landscape Character TypeA1-I1: Landscape Character AreaA Harbour MouthA1 Chichester Harbour MouthB Harbour BasinB1 Chichester Harbour BasinC Broad InletC1 Langstone Harbour HeadC2 Emsworth Harbour HeadC3 Thorney Channel HeadD Narrow InletD1 Bosham ChannelD2 Itchenor ReachD3 Fishbourne ChannelE Minor InletsE1 Mill RytheE2 Mengham Rythe & Cockle RytheE3 Snow Hill InletF Coastal StripF1 South Hayling IslandF2 Wittering CoastG Harbour Islands & PeninsulasG1 North Hayling IslandG2 Thorney IslandG3 Chidham PeninsulaG4 Bosham PeninsulaH Lower Coastal PlainH1 Havant to Chichester Coastal PlainI Coastal PeninsulaI1 Manhood Peninsula14

Part 121. Background - VisionThe Vision for ChichesterHarbour AONBThe 20 year Vision paints a picture of what Chichester Harbour AONB shouldlook like in the future, and is as valid today as at the implementation of the firstphase of the Management Plan in April 2004. It provides a target to head for, forwhich this current Management Plan strives. It is a formula for wise stewardshipthat recognises the needs of future generations.A draft Vision was prepared for discussion at the eight Consultation Workshops in2002 and has been developed from an understanding of the special qualities ofthe AONB, the need to adapt to change and support the local community andeconomy whilst ensuring that what is unique, valuable and outstanding aboutChichester Harbour AONB is safe for the future.Vision for Chichester Harbour AONBChichester Harbour AONB is a blend of land and sea characterised by open waters,intimate creeks and natural shorelines that, in combination, are unique. The landscape isdynamic and able to adapt naturally to changes. The diversity of habitats and species alsoadapts to nature's continual evolution, retaining the Harbour's importance nationally andinternationally for nature conservation.Ashore, sound land use planning and stewardship is practised, thus maintaining andimproving the area’s unique features and contributing to the innovative use of land,profitable and sustainable farming and the well-being of the community. Vulnerable land isacquired through the Chichester Harbour Trust for future generations.The new blends sympathetically with the old, maintaining the landscape and improvingdiversity. Natural processes continue to define the shape of Chichester Harbour.The open water is a thriving recreational harbour, well managed and providing enjoymentand employment through its associated maritime trades and interests. The Harbour'swaters are safe and accessible for all to use. Free from pollutants, its waters are ideal forwater based recreation and contribute to a sustainable fishery.Visitors and residents are able to enjoy the beauty, peace and tranquillity of the areachoosing public transport, walking or cycling along an unobtrusive network of purpose builtroutes.Through comprehensive programmes of well-focused activities and easily availableinformation, people understand and value their surroundings. Organisations andindividuals, representing all aspects of society, participate in decisions affecting ChichesterHarbour AONB and work in partnership to deliver the Vision, justifying its premier positionin nationally protected landscapes and providing a role model for sustainable integratedcoastal management.By following this Vision the special qualities of Chichester HarbourAONB can be protected and enhanced and the quality of life for itsmany visitors and residents improved.www.conservancy.co.ukMay 200915

Section & ChapterPart 13Managing ChichesterHarbour AONBIntroduction to the PartnershipThere are a number of key partners with a role to play in the delivery of theChichester Harbour AONB Management Plan, and the successful delivery of thePlan will require the active co-operation of all the partners.The Joint Advisory Committee (JAC) - is the primary partnership body with a role to playin managing Chichester Harbour AONB and delivering the Management Plan. Itsmembers are detailed within Appendix 1 and represent the membership of theConservancy and the Advisory Committee, as determined in the Chichester Harbour Act1971.Within the JAC are partners which have a specific role to play in managing theAONB and delivering the Management Plan, which have arisen from therequirements of the CRoW Act 2000. These are listed below:The Conservancy is run from the Harbour Office atItchenorChichester Harbour Conservancy - was set up in 1971 by an Act of Parliament. TheConservancy is the decision–making body for Chichester Harbour and provides theformal partnership between the Local Authorities and the local interest groups throughmeetings of the Conservancy and the Advisory Committee. These meetings provide theConservancy with the framework and policy for the integrated management ofChichester Harbour in terms of its role as the Harbour Authority and nature conservationsteward, and together they form the JAC for the AONB. The Conservancy has acomprehensive staffing unit with the professional and technical expertise required tocarry out its varied roles and is actively supported by many non-governmentorganisations. Members of the Conservancy staff form the AONB core staff unit. Detailsof the JAC and staffing structure are shown in Appendix 1. More details about theConservancy’s work can be found at www.conservancy.co.uk.Administrative boundaries within the AONB16Reproduced from or based upon 2008 Ordnance Survey material with permission of the Controller of HMSO © Crown Copyright reserved. Unauthorised reproduction infringes CrownCopyright and may lead to prosecution or civil proceedings. West Sussex County Council Licence No. 100023447.www.conservancy.co.ukMay 2009

1. Background - Managing the AONBNatural England – is the statutory body with responsibility to ensure that England’sunique natural environment including its land, flora and fauna, freshwater and marineenvironments, geology and soils are protected and improved. Natural England also hasthe responsibility to help people enjoy, understand and access the natural environment.The Natural Environment and Rural Communities Act 2006 sets Natural England a newpurpose: ‘to ensure that the natural environment is conserved, enhanced, and managedfor the benefit of present and future generations, thereby contributing to sustainabledevelopment’. This is achieved by influencing others through advice, financial supportand liaising with government. Natural England has a regulatory role on activitiesaffecting the special nature conservation sites in England. The Strategic Directiondocument describes the outcomes Natural England aims to achieve over the next fiveyears, delivered by the Corporate Plan. More details can be found atwww.naturalengland.org.uk.West Sussex County Council – has three key roles across the County: providing andcommissioning essential public services; as a planner and regulator; and as ademocratically elected body, spokesman for the people of the County. The CountyCouncil works in partnership with Chichester Harbour Conservancy to deliver jointpolicies in the AONB that protect and enhance its landscape and conservation in asustainable way. As Highway Authority for the area, WSCC and Chichester HarbourConservancy work together to promote access for all to the AONB, creatingopportunities to enjoy the area. Partnership working is also important in finding ways ofconserving the coast while protecting property. West Sussex is one of two countycouncils which are precepted to help fund the work of Chichester Harbour Conservancy.Hampshire County Council – supports the management of the Harbour and AONBthrough the payment of a precept to Chichester Harbour Conservancy from its CouncilTax receipts. It is represented on the Conservancy Board by elected Members. As wellas its duties in relation to the AONB Management Plan and the Harbour, the CountyCouncil is active in coastal management matters, countryside management, sports andoutdoor activities, tourism, economic development, and strategic land-use planning.Boat moored at ItchenorChichester District Council – works in partnership with the Chichester HarbourConservancy to protect and enhance the landscape and character of the AONB. Its roleincludes that of local planning authority and coast protection authority. The Council’sinterests encompass conserving this unique part of the District and enabling all sectorsof society to access and enjoy it.Havant Borough Council – has participated in the management of the ChichesterHarbour AONB via the Chichester Harbour Conservancy since it was set up in 1971.The Borough Council continues to support the Conservancy through the newmanagement arrangements under the Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000 as oneof the four Local Authority partners on the steering group guiding the production of anew AONB Management Plan.Funding the management of Chichester HarbourAONBEffective and long-term management of Chichester Harbour AONB is reliant onfunding. Current funding received by Chichester Harbour Conservancy for themanagement of the AONB and the housing of the AONB core staff unit comesfrom West Sussex and Hampshire County Councils via the Council Tax precept.Defra, through Natural England, currently contributes grant aid for the AONB corestaff unit and Sustainable Development Fund. Additional funding comes from theFriends of Chichester Harbour. However, the Natural England resources forproject funding will decline in future years as a greater proportion of their fundsgoes into supporting AONB core activities. It will be important, however, to securefunding from other sources in the future given the current government fundingconstraints.www.conservancy.co.ukMay 200917

1. Background - Managing the AONBBoat owners pay for the Conservancy’s core harbour management duties of:marking and removing hazards to navigation; implementing the byelaws andensuring the safe enjoyment of the Harbour; and licensing, regulating andmaintaining moorings. Money is raised through Harbour Dues, levied on everyvessel that uses the Harbour, to pay for aids to navigation, patrolling and otherstatutory Harbour functions. Separate charges are made for the licensing ofmooring sites, for the hire of sites and maintained moorings. The maritimeaccount is self-funding and any annual surplus is transferred to the DevelopmentFund to finance essential works and land acquisitions.Proposals for working in partnership to deliver theChichester Harbour AONB Management Plan• To maintain and develop close working partnerships between all bodiesinvolved in Chichester Harbour AONB and to co-ordinate policy with the otheragencies involved in coastal zone management.• To identify and secure funding opportunities to provide for the management ofChichester Harbour AONB, as outlined in this Management Plan.• To monitor the implementation of the Chichester Harbour AONB ManagementPlan.• To maintain regular contact with the AONB Management Plan SteeringCommittee.• To review the functioning of the AONB Joint Advisory Committee (JAC).Looking towards the South Downs fromSnowhill Creek• To make policy documentation on Chichester Harbour AONB widely available.18www.conservancy.co.ukMay 2009

1. Background - Managing the AONBKey conceptsChichester Harbour Conservancy and its partners have, since 1971, evolved a series of concepts to guide theirmanagement of Chichester Harbour AONB. These Key Concepts provide a framework to underpin the Policiesand Actions contained within the current Management Plan.1. Protecting and improving the special qualities of the AONB• To conserve and enhance the natural beauty of Chichester Harbour AONB.• To conserve and enhance the value of Chichester Harbour AONB for sailing, boating, quiet recreation andwildlife.• To retain the quiet, undeveloped nature of parts of Chichester Harbour AONB through the sympatheticmanagement of access and positive planning.2. Sustainability and wise use• To conserve, maintain and improve Chichester Harbour AONB and its associated facilities and marineindustries for safe recreation where they are consistent with its landscape and nature conservationdesignations.• To ensure the wise use and sustainable management of Chichester Harbour AONB is carried out for thebenefit of present generations without compromising the needs of future generations.• To maintain a balance between the various interests and users and encourage restraint in the wayChichester Harbour AONB is used.3. Increasing knowledge and understanding• To increase public awareness, particularly among young people, of the value of Chichester Harbour AONBand the threats to its well-being.• To increase community involvement, public participation and social inclusion in the management ofChichester Harbour AONB.• To undertake or commission scientific research as the basis for sound environmental management ofChichester Harbour AONB.4. Helping people to enjoy the AONB• To manage the AONB to promote and aid the enjoyment of users of all ages, abilities and interests.5. Supporting the local community and economy• To support sustainable forms of rural industry and agricultural practices where they are consistent withChichester Harbour AONB’s landscape and nature conservation designations.• To support the economic and social needs of the local communities where they are consistent withChichester Harbour AONB’s landscape and nature conservation designations.6. Working in partnership• To ensure that the delivery of the Chichester Harbour AONB Management Plan is supported by all thepartner organisations.• To develop a close working relationship between all involved in Chichester Harbour AONB and to co-ordinatepolicy with the other agencies involved in coastal zone management.• To raise the profile of Chichester Harbour AONB amongst decision makers at regional and national level.www.conservancy.co.ukMay 200919

Section & ChapterPart 2Policies and ActionsThe ManagementPlan has beendivided into 15chapters to reflectthe special qualities,environments andactivities withinChichester HarbourAONB. Each chapterhas a briefBackground sectionfollowed by a seriesof Main Issues whicharose from the eightConsultationWorkshops held in2002, and whichwere felt to beimportant issues tobe considered andaddressed in thefuture managementof ChichesterHarbour AONB.Each section has a series of Policies. These have arisen from the discussionsheld at the Consultation Workshops, the knowledge and experience of ChichesterHarbour Conservancy and its partners in managing Chichester Harbour AONBsince 1971 and the six Key Concepts (page 19) which have helped steer theManagement Plan to date. The Policies are aspirational and visionary in natureand the adoption of the Management Plan will be a clear commitment thatorganisations have due regard to the Policies in the delivery of their functionswithin Chichester Harbour AONB, in order to fulfil Section 85 of the CROW Act2000.Following the Policies are detailed Action tables which set out how each of thePolicies will be delivered over the five year period of the Management Plan. EachAction has been given a ‘priority weighting’ of High, Medium or Opportunistic tohelp partners identify annual priorities in terms of staff commitments and fundingrequirements. Each individual action has been linked to a relevant Policy orPolicies and Lead Organisations and Partners have been identified who will takeon the responsibility to either co-ordinate or implement the actions. A deliveryyear or timescale has been identified for each Action over the five year deliveryperiod from April 2009 to March 2014. The implementation of the Actions is criticalto the success of the Management Plan, and they will also help determine futurepartnership funding for projects and initiatives. Each year the Management PlanSteering Committee will meet to determine the annual work programme based onall the Action tables, and targets for delivery will be set where appropriate.As the Management Plan is not entirely a stand-alone document, other plans andstrategies relevant to the future management of Chichester Harbour AONB havealso been identified in each section. In addition, sources of information cited inthe Background sections are included.It is important to note that individual chapters should not be read in isolation andthat there are, by the very nature of an integrated management plan, degrees ofoverlap between chapters - with some actions helping to deliver a number ofPolicies. Key facts and figures are illustrated at the beginning of each section andsources of information are numerically referenced at the end of the chapter.Dinghy RacingMatt Simmons20www.conservancy.co.ukMay 2009

PoliciesPart 21HA1 To undertake and regulatemarine operations in a way thatsafeguards the Harbour, its users,the public and the environment, byimplementing and demonstratingcompliance with the Port MarineSafety Code (PMSC).HA2 To maintain an organisation fordelivering the PMSC, identifyingaccountability and responsibilitywithin the organisation and directinghow the PMSC is to be delivered.HA3 To maintain a SafetyManagement System based on thecomprehensive risk assessment ofhazards associated with harbouroperations and the implementationof appropriate control measuresinvolving all harbour organisationsand outside agencies.HA4 To conserve the Harbour sothat it is fit for use as a port and toensure that users are provided withadequate information aboutconditions in the Harbour.HA5 To control and direct vessels soas to ensure the safe and peacefuluse of the Harbour.HA6 To maintain a ChichesterHarbour Emergency Plan andMaritime and Coastguard Agencyapproved Oil Spill Contingency Plan.HA7 To regulate all moorings in theHarbour and to maintain a fleet ofsuitable vessels to dischargeconservancy, moorings and controlof navigation roles.2. Policies & Actions - Harbour AuthorityThe Role of the HarbourAuthority• Chichester Harbour with 28 square kms of water, 27 kms of well marked and litchannels and with easy access to the Solent, is an ideal water recreation centre.• The Harbour has over 5,200 moorings and marina berths, and 16 sailing clubs.• Chichester Harbour Conservancy maintains a network of over 50 navigationbeacons, markers and bouys.BackgroundThe Harbour has a resident fleet of over 11,000 leisure vessels, representingabout 28% of all the recreational craft in the Solent. Combined membership of the16 sailing clubs amounts to 12,000 people and each year an estimated 25,000come and enjoy the Harbour’s waters for racing, cruising and fishing. In turn, theHarbour supports a large number of marine related businesses, providing jobsand making a valuable contribution to the local economy. The total value ofmarine businesses and vessels in the Harbour is estimated to be £523 million 1 .The management of the Harbour is guided by the duties and powers laid uponChichester Harbour Conservancy by the 1971 Act (see Appendix 1 for furtherdetails of the 1971 Act). These statutory duties require the Conservancy to takesteps for the conservancy, maintenance and improvement of the Harbour for theuse of pleasure craft and such other vessels as may seek to use the same. Since2002 the manner in which this is done has, in large measure, been prescribed bythe Port Marine Safety Code (PMSC) which is a central government directive. ThePMSC establishes a national standard for port marine safety and a measure bywhich Harbour Authorities can be held accountable for their legal powers andduties to run their harbours safely.The provisions of the draft Marine and Coastal Access Bill may affect theConservancy’s Harbour Authority functions through improvements to the currentlicensing and consents procedures. The Conservancy would wish to work closelywith the newly established Marine Management Organisation to ensure that plansand projects in the harbour do not have an adverse impact on navigation,landscape and nature conservation interests.Main issuesThe 2002 consultation workshops identified several main issues, many of whichare still relevant today. These were revised during the 2008 consultation process,and from experience of delivering the Management Plan over the past five years:► Danger to navigation caused by congestion and overcrowding on the water,particularly at weekends.► Conflicts between different types of Harbour user which may also impact onsafety of navigation, for example racing versus cruising, moorings versusnavigation and the operation of fishing vessels.► Balancing aspirations for growth by maritime business with Harbour Authority’sresponsibility for safety of navigation and the environmental requirements of thenational and international nature conservation designations.► In a Harbour with dynamic sediment movement patterns, balancing the need toconduct works and dredging, in order to maintain safe navigation and recreationaluse, with the conflicting requirements of the international and national natureconservation designations.► Concern at the pollution, visual and navigation impacts of houseboats.1Valuing Chichester Harbour, (2009), UE Associateswww.conservancy.co.ukMay 200921

2. Policies & Actions - Harbour AuthorityActions to deliver Harbour Authority PoliciesRef Details Timing PolicyRefLeadOrg(s)Partners1-HA2-HA3-HA4-HA5-HA6-HATo produce and keep up to date a document that directs anddescribes how Chichester Harbour Conservancy demonstratescompliance with the Port Marine Safety Code (PMSC).To nominate members of the Conservancy to act as the ‘DutyHolder’ responsible for setting a standard for the safe managementof the Harbour in accordance with the PMSC.To nominate the Manager and Harbour Master as the ‘DesignatedPerson’ responsible for providing independent assurance to the‘Duty Holder’ that the safety management system is working.To maintain job descriptions for the officers of the Conservancy,allocating responsibility for the delivery of the PMSC.To maintain Harbour Office Standing Instructions containing ordersfor the execution of the policies of the Conservancy.To recruit, train and retrain suitable staff and to monitor theirperformance with annual assessments.HighOngoing(review y5)HighOngoing(review y5)HighOngoing(review y5)HighOngoing(review y5)HighOngoing(review y5)HighOngoing(review y5)7-HA To maintain an auditable safety management system. HighOngoing(review y5)8-HATo keep a log of incidents and accidents on the Harbour andmaintain a regime to review hazards and control measures.HighOngoing(review y5)HA1HA1,HA2HA1,HA2HA1,HA2HA1,HA2,HA3HA1,HA2HA1,HA3CHCCHCCHCCHCCHCCHCCHCHA3 CHC MCACH Fed; MCA;RNLI; DfT;emergencyservices9-HATo submit the Safety Management system to external audit andreport to the Conservancy.HighOngoingAnnuallyHA3CHC10-HATo conduct and keep up to date risk assessments on all Harbouroperations and implement control measures in Orders, Notices,Directions, Publications and Guidance notes. Assist CH Fed andother organisations in the production of risk control measures:·Code of Conduct for RacingGuide on Navigational Safety for Racing Vessels·Risk Assessments for RacingDeconfliction of racing programmesHighOngoing(review y5)HA3CHC11-HATo maintain Health & Safety At Work orders for the safe conduct ofall activities performed by Conservancy employees.HighOngoing(review y5)HA3CHC12-HA13-HA14-HA15-HA16-HATo consult with harbour users on the implementation of theHarbour safety management system.To keep Admiralty Chart 3418 – Langstone and ChichesterHarbours – up to date by informing UK Hydrographic Office of allknown changes to the hydrography of the Harbour and aids to navigation.To provide Harbour users with the prevailing meteorologicalconditions and weather forecasts, in a timely manner.To ensure the Harbour has a modern and well- maintained systemof aids to navigation based on risk assessment and complying withthe IALA system of buoyage (Region A); and to maintain channelmarker posts and buoys.To allocate designated areas of the Harbour for anchorage and tomonitor their safe use.HighOngoing(review y5)HighOngoing(review y5)HighOngoing(review y5)HighOngoing(review y5)HighOngoing(review y5)HA3 CHC AllHA4 CHC UKHO;Trinity HouseHA4HA4HA4,HA5CHCCHCCHC22www.conservancy.co.ukMay 2009

2. Policies & Actions - Harbour AuthorityRef Details Timing PolicyRefLeadOrg(s)Partners17-HATo regulate, by means of licences, works and dredging belowMHWS in order to maintain safety of navigation, the environmentand landscape of the Harbour and to promote the beneficialdisposal of dredgings.HighOngoing(review y5)HA4CHC18-HATo support and sponsor where appropriate proposals forsustainable dredging in the Harbour in order to maintain safety ofnavigation and amenity value of the Harbour.HighOngoing(review y5)HA4CHC19-HATo maintain up-to-date byelaws for the management and regulationof all types of vessels in order to ensure the safe and peaceful useof the Harbour.HighOngoing(review y5)HA5CHC20-HA21-HATo maintain a comprehensive patrol presence on the Harbour toenforce byelaws, give directions and to offer advice and assistanceto mariners.To licence commercial vessels and masters operating within theHarbour and carrying fewer than 12 passengers. (Issued subject tothe conditions of the Conservancy).HighOngoing(review y5)HighOngoing(review y5)HA5CHCHA5 CHC MCA22-HATo maintain and exercise a Harbour Emergency Plan liaising andco-ordinating, as appropriate, with other emergency services andLocal Authorities.HighOngoing(review y5)HA6 CHC Local Authorities;emergencyservices;23-HATo maintain and exercise a MCA compliant Oil Pollution ResponsePlan, a Tier 1 response capability and a contract with an approvedcontractor for a Tier 2 response to an oil spill in the Harbour.HighOngoingAnnuallyHA6 CHC Local Authorities;emergency services;Adler & Allen24-HA25-HA26-HA27-HATo regulate and set conditions for the number, location, size andstandard for moorings in the Harbour in order to maintain safenavigation.To maintain Conservancy owned hards, pontoons and jetties in asafe and workable condition.To maintain a fit for purpose fleet of vessels for the discharge ofthe Conservancy’s duties.To refuse any new houseboat licences and to rescind existinglicences when the occupation of a houseboat ceases.HighOngoing(review y5)HighOngoing(review y5)HighOngoing(review y5)HighOngoing(review y 5)HA7 CHC CH Fed; mooringsuppliersHA4HA4,HA5,HA6,HA7EW1;EW2;EW3CHCCHCCHCConstruction of the new Bar Beacon 2007www.conservancy.co.ukMay 200923

2. Policies & Actions - Harbour AuthorityLinks to other relevant plans and strategiesPort Marine Safety Code (2000)Oil Pollution Response Convention (1998)Hampshire Coastal Oil and Chemical Pollution PlanWest Sussex Major Civil Emergency PlanHavant Borough Council Emergency PlanSOLFIRE PlanLangstone Harbour Oil Spill Contingency PlanMCA Codes for licensing commercial vesselThe National Contingency Plan (NCP) for marine pollution from shipping and offshoreinstallationsMarine Navigation BillWest Sussex County Council Coastal Pollution Plan (2005) (under review)The role of lead organisations and partnersConservancy staff maintain navigation marks andmooring equipment in the workshopChichester Harbour ConservancyHarbour Authority and AONB Joint Advisory(CHC)CommitteeDepartment for Transport (DfT)Central Government department responsiblefor ports policy, legal matters, dredging andworks licencesMaritime and Coastguard Agency(MCA)Trinity HouseRoyal Yachting Association(RYA)Chichester Harbour Federation(CH Fed)United Kingdom HydrographicOffice (UKHO)Local AuthoritiesAdler & AllenMaritime Emergency Service andGovernment Regulator for vessel safetyNational Lighthouse Authority and regulatorfor aids to navigationRepresenting boating interests at a nationallevelRepresenting boat owners, clubs andbusinesses on the HarbourProvision of navigational products andservicesLocal Development Frameworks, EmergencyPlans.Oil spill response training exercisesThe Harbour Patrol team assist around300 people per year on the waterChichester Observer24www.conservancy.co.ukMay 2009

PoliciesPart 22L1 To promote the conservation andenhancement of the special qualitiesof the AONB.L2 To monitor the character of theland and seascape, as identified inthe Chichester Harbour LandscapeCharacter Assessment (2005).L3 To encourage and develop publicinterest and awareness in the landand seascape character and itsconservation within ChichesterHarbour AONB.L4 To identify the potential impactsof climate change on the land andseascape of Chichester HarbourAONB and work with others todevelop a long-term strategy toaddress changes which might arise.Open agricultural fields fringed with hedgerowsand ditches are characteristic of the landscape2. Policies & Actions - Land & SeaThe Land and Seascape• The main components of the land and seascape are open water, intertidal mud andsand, saltmarshes, shingle beaches, sand dunes, woodlands, meadows andgrasslands, ponds and streams, coastal grazing marsh, reedbeds, hedgerows,hedgerow trees and ditches within the farmland 1 .• Chichester Harbour is the smallest AONB in the south-east covering nearly 7,400hectares, of which 3,073 hectares is intertidal and subtidal and 4,327 hectares island 2, 3 .• There is approximately 86km of shoreline within the AONB, of which approximately24km is undefended and natural 3 .• Chalk, Reading Beds and London Clay comprise the base geology of the AONB 1 .• There are 45 hectares of semi-natural ancient woodland within the AONB, includingOld Park Wood and Salterns Copse 3 .• There are 15.25km of wooded shoreline within the AONB 3 .BackgroundChichester Harbour AONB is fully tidal, draining to the sea through a narrowentrance between Hayling Island and the Manhood Peninsula. The coast ispenetrated by distinctive tidal inlets that lead inland from the Harbour mouth viaan open water pool to the A259 road which generally forms the northern boundaryto the AONB. Saltmarsh and intertidal mudflats of the Harbour pool and inlets arebroken by a maze of intricate channels and rithes. These inlets are in turninterspersed by fairly open agricultural peninsulas with fields fringed by narrowmargins of wind sculptured oaks and hawthorn and open coastal plain. However,in parts the large urban areas of Chichester, Havant and South Hayling have astrong influence on character, as do clusters of glasshouses and other roadsidedevelopment. In the flat landscape the vertical elements of church spires and oldmills are also an important part of its character, as are the colour-washed redroofedvillages.As a result, there is significant variation and contrast in landscape characterwhich is enhanced by the patterns of sea and land changing with the tide andseasons. The Chichester Harbour AONB Landscape Character Assessment(2005) identified nine Landscape Character Types which are broad tracts of ‘land’with common characteristics of geology, landform, vegetation, land use andsettlement that may re-occur across an area without being directly related tospecific places. From these, 20 Landscape Character Areas have been identifiedwhich represent unique areas with a recognisable pattern of landscapecharacteristics and are geographical areas of a particular Landscape CharacterType (see Map 8 and the Chichester Harbour AONB Landscape CharacterAssessment (2005) for further details and descriptions). These landscapeclassifications fit into the suite of national and county Regional Character Areasand Types and county-based landscape and historic landscape assessments.The landscape, ecological and historic character of the AONB is dynamic and isconstantly changing in response to natural processes and human activities.Agriculture has developed; settlements have changed in both their appearanceand extent; roads and traffic have increased and the industries associated withthe Harbour have changed. Natural events, such as Dutch Elm disease and stormevents have also had a significant visual impact, with the loss of many of thecharacteristic, wind-shaped trees and woodlands. Rising sea levels and coastalerosion may lead to the loss of characteristic coastal oaks.1Chichester Harbour AONB Landscape Character Assessment (2005) Chris Blandford Associates2 www.conservancy.co.ukDirectory of Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (1992) Countryside Commission3Chichester Harbour Conservancy May 2009 GIS data25

2. Policies & Actions - Land & SeaPrevious actions to increase land available for farming and development have ledto hard sea defences being erected around much of the Harbour. In some placesthis has created coastal grazing marsh, now an important habitat, but sometimesit has resulted in the loss of habitats characteristic of a more ‘natural’ coastline,such as intertidal saltmarsh and wooded shorelines.The future impacts of climate change and sea level rise are likely to see pressureput on coastal grazing marsh for the creation of other intertidal habitats. Whilstthese intertidal habitats are of international importance, this process will lead to aloss of local diversity and character. Where sea defences remain, they will alsohave an impact on the landscape of the Harbour, especially where inappropriateand unsightly materials have been used in their construction or maintenance.The farmed landscape has changed as agricultural mechanisation hasdeveloped. Hedgerows and woodlands have been removed over time to increasefield sizes and hence production, creating a more open landscape than wouldhave been found previously.The settlements within Chichester Harbour AONB have also changed with theshift from rural farming and harbour-based fishing industries to residential areasand holiday occupation. This has an impact on the landscape, increasing theemphasis on the built environment (see section 6 Buildings and Development,page 41).The cumulative effect of past change has created the special and distinctivecharacter of the AONB that is valued today (see Map 8, page 14). The landscapewill continue to change in future. However, the pace and nature of change isaccelerating, which may impact upon and damage those qualities that make thelandscape special. A key challenge is to understand, manage and direct futurechange in a way that maintains the outstanding landscape quality and conservesand enhances its valued features and attributes. In the long term, the best form ofprotection will come from ownership and long-term stewardship, where theChichester Harbour Trust plays a key role. The Trust was established in 2002 asan independent charity with the role of identifying and purchasing land oflandscape and nature conservation in the AONB. The Conservancy advises onland acquisition and site management.View from Dell Quay towards Chichester CathedralThere are, therefore, many factors both within and outside the AONB which canlead to changes, both now and in the future. The Chichester Harbour AONB TheLandscape Character Assessment (2005) identified five key forces for change;agriculture, development, climate change, transport and traffic and recreation andtourism and these are expanded upon in sections 4, 6, 10, 12 and 11,respectively. These five elements are closely inter-related and climate changemay be considered an over-arching force for change, impacting upon the otherfour factors. The Landscape Character Assessment also gives details on thesensitivity of the Landscape Character Types and Areas to these key forces forchange and suggested management guidelines to respond to these 1 .26www.conservancy.co.ukMay 2009

2. Policies & Actions - Land & SeaMain issuesThe 2002 consultation workshops identified several main issues, many of whichare still relevant today. These were revised during the 2008 consultation process,and from experience of delivering the Management Plan over the past five years:► A loss of trees and hedgerows through removal, agricultural and otherdevelopment, conversion to fenced horse paddocks as well as natural causes.► A loss of the natural shoreline appearance and prohibitive costs involved inlandscape improvements for sea defence works.Coastal Oaks along the footpath nearItchenor► A deterioration in landscape value of some areas due to inappropriate or lackof management.► The need to improve awareness of the landscape value of Chichester HarbourAONB.► The urbanisation of grasslands, meadows, open spaces and road vergesthrough mowing and gardening, contributing towards a loss of their wildlife value.► A lack of funding and personnel available to carry out landscape and traditionalland management works.► The impact of diminishing returns in agriculture leading to inappropriatediversification and the development of poly tunnels and pony paddocks.Actions to conserve, enhance and protect the land and seascapeRef Details Timing PolicyRef1-LAMonitor landscape change using the 2005 Landscape CharacterAssessmentHighOngoing(review y5)2-LA Undertake review of 2005 Landscape Character Assessment HighYear 23-LA4-LAUse the Landscape Character Assessment to identify ways topromote a wider understanding and recognition of the specialqualities of the AONB and their economic and social value tosociety.Identify suitable areas for landscape improvements and encouragelandowners and land managers to support and implement them totake into account likely impacts of climate change.HighOngoing(review y5)HighOngoing(review y5)L1; L2;L3LeadOrg(s)CHCPartnersLAs; NEL2 CHC LAs; NEL1; L3 CHC LAs; ParishCouncilsL1; L3;L4CHC,FWAG;NELandowners;ForestryCommission5-LAManage, in conjunction with landowners, existing landscapefeatures.HighOngoing(review y5)L1; L3 CHC Landowners;ForestryCommission; NE,FCH; CCV6-LAImprove and restore the ‘naturalness’ of the Harbour shorelinewhere possible and where appropriateHighOngoing(review y5)L1; L4 CHC,EALandowners; LAs;NE7-LASeek opportunities for managed re-alignment where rising sealevels make existing sea defences no longer cost effective.HighOngoing(review y5)L4 CHC Landowners;NE; EA; LAs8-LAMonitor and remove where possible features which damage thelandscape including boat wrecks, dumped rubbish and rubblethrough liaison with boatyards and landowners, and prevent thedevelopment of new ones.HighOngoing(review y5)L1CHC;LAsLandowners; NE9-LAManage land in public ownership to maintain and enhance itswildlife and landscape value, in particular rural road verges.HighOngoing(review y5)L1; L3 LAs Parish Councilswww.conservancy.co.ukMay 200927

2. Policies & Actions - Land & SeaActions to conserve, enhance and protect the land and seascape (cont’d)Ref Details Timing PolicyRef10-LA11-LA12-LA13-LA14-LA15-LAUse Planning Guidelines and Landscape Character Assessment toincorporate land and seascape issues when assessing planningapplications, both on an individual basis and cumulatively.Identify and develop those landscape qualities special to the AONBwhich help bring social and economic benefits.Use a variety of methods and media to disseminate information onthe land and seascape value of Chichester Harbour AONB.Acquire land of key importance to the land and seascape ofChichester Harbour AONB to manage positively and safeguard itsfuture.Identify the need for and establish Tree and Woodland ProtectionOrders where appropriate.Manage dead or dying English Elm trees by rotational coppicing orpollarding, or replacing with suitable alternatives where appropriateto increase wildlife and landscape value.HighOngoing(review y5)HighOngoing(review y5)HighOngoing(review y5)High(Opportunistic)MediumOngoing(review y5)MediumOngoing(review y5)LeadOrg(s)L1; L3 CHC;LAsL1; L3 CHC;LAs; NE;EAL3 CHC;LAs; NEL1; L3;L4CHC;LAs; CHTrustPartnersNE; EALandownersEALandowners,FCHL1 LAs Landowners;CHCL1CHC;LAsLandowners16-LAManage areas of ancient woodland within the AONB, and seek toprovide links between them.MediumOngoing(review y5)L1 CHC NE, FCH, CCV,ForestryCommission;FWAG,Links to other relevant plans and strategiesChichester Harbour AONB Landscape Character Assessment (2005)Draft Regional Spatial Strategy for the South EastA Strategy for the West Sussex Landscape (2005)View towards Dell QuayHampshire Landscape Assessment (2000)The European Landscape ConventionTowards Tomorrows Countryside (2001)West Sussex Structure Plan (2001- 2016)Hampshire County Structure Plan (1996-2011)Chichester District Local Plan (1999) / LDF Core StrategyHavant Borough District-Wide Local Plan (1996-2011) / LDF Core StrategyWest Sussex Historic Landscape CharacterisationEast Solent Shoreline Management Plan (1997) East Solent Coastal GroupPagham to East Head Coastal Defence Strategy 2008Havant Borough Townscape, Landscape and Seascape Character Assessment (2007)Richard PeelWest Sussex Environment Strategy 2008West Sussex Rural Strategy 200728www.conservancy.co.ukMay 2009

2. Policies & Actions - Land & SeaThe role of lead organisations and partnersChichester Harbour Conservancy(CHC)LandownersFarming and Wildlife Advisory Group(FWAG)Forestry CommissionFriends of Chichester Harbour (FCH)Chichester Conservation Volunteers(CCV)Natural England (NE)Local Authorities (LAs)Parish CouncilsEnvironment Agency (EA)Chichester Harbour Trust(CH Trust)Co-ordination and implementationOwners of land within the AONBFarming and wildlife adviceAdvice, fundingVolunteers, fundingConservation volunteersFunding through agrienvironmentschemes, projectfunding, policy advice, regulatorybodyAdvice, funding, local planningauthoritiesRepresentatives of localcommunitiesNational policy, advice, fundingCharitable Trust seeking to acquireland within the AONBChichester Yacht Club with Birdham Pool in the distancewww.conservancy.co.ukMay 200929

Section & ChapterPart 2Policies3NC1 To improve the value of theAONB for the conservation of wildlife(terrestrial, intertidal and subtidalspecies and habitats) and prevent itsdegradation.NC2 To ensure no loss of andincrease where possible the extentof internationally and nationallyimportant habitats and species, asidentified by the Habitats Directiveand the UK Biodiversity Action Plan.NC3 To ensure no loss of andincrease where possible the extentof all natural and semi-naturalhabitats and species that arecharacteristic of the AONB, asidentified in the Chichester HarbourBiodiversity Action Plan.NC4 To research and monitorhabitats and species of natureconservation importance in theAONB.NC5 To increase knowledge,understanding and public interestand awareness in the wildlife andconservation of the AONB.NC6 To seek opportunities toinfluence individuals andorganisations to improve the longterm sustainable management forspecies and habitats of conservationimportance within the AONB.NC7 To understand the impacts ofclimate change and seekopportunities for the creation of newhabitats.Nature Conservation• Chichester Harbour AONB is designated as internationally important for threespecies of wildfowl (Dark-bellied Brent Goose, Shelduck and Teal) and four speciesof wader (Grey Plover, Sanderling, Dunlin and Redshank) 1 .• Over the five winters between 2001/2 and 2005/6 the AONB held an average of46,215 waterfowl, making it the 26th most important site in the UK and the mostimportant in the Solent 2 .• With 53 wetland bird species the AONB held the greatest diversity of any site in theUK recorded in 2005/6 WeBS Low Tide Counts 2 .• Chichester Harbour Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) covers 3,695 hectaresof which 3,606 hectares lies within the AONB 1, 3• A sub-tidal survey of habitats and species within the harbour identified 200 maritimetaxa including invertebrates, algae and fish 4 .• The AONB is also important for mammal species, with a small resident Harbour Sealpopulation and regular sightings of endangered Water Voles.BackgroundThe unique mixture of habitats which make up Chichester Harbour AONB make ita significant and important international, national and local resource for natureconservation. It encompasses a diverse suite of marine, intertidal and coastalhabitats, together with farmland, hedgerows, woodland and a rich rural landscapelying within the coastal plain. At an international level, Chichester Harbour hasbeen designated as a wetland of international importance under the RamsarConvention (1971) as it regularly holds 20,000 or more wildfowl and waders inwinter, and has more than 1% of the international population of species such asDark-bellied Brent Goose and Grey Plover. Under the EU Directive on theConservation of Wild Birds (79/409/EEC) Chichester Harbour and theneighbouring Langstone Harbour have been designated as a Special ProtectionArea (SPA). Chichester Harbour also makes up part of the Solent MaritimeSpecial Area of Conservation (SAC), designated under the EU Habitats Directive(92/43/EEC). See Maps 2 and 3 (page 9).Section 40 of the Natural Environment and Rural Communities (NERC) Act 2006places a new duty upon every public authority who must, in exercising theirfunctions, have regard, so far as is consistent with the proper exercise of thosefunctions, to the purpose of conserving biodiversity. Furthermore, under theprovisions of the Countryside and Rights of Way (CRoW) Act 2000, set out inSchedule 9 Section 28G(2), bodies ‘exercising their functions’ must takereasonable steps, consistent with the proper exercise of the authorities’ functionsto further the conservation and enhancement of Sites of Special ScientificInterests (SSSIs) 5 . Therefore, the Policies and Actions which appear in thissection encompass the responsibilities placed on public bodies under the NERCand CRoW Acts in the management of nature conservation.At a national level, Chichester Harbour was designated as a SSSI in 1970 undera predecessor of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended) for itsextensive intertidal mudflats, unimproved permanent pasture, saltmarshcommunities, shingle spits and islands, freshwater marshes, coastal scrub, seminaturalwoodland and other associated habitats. Locally, there are five LocalNature Reserves (LNRs), 14 Sites of Nature Conservation Importance (SNCIs) inWest Sussex and 24 Sites of Importance for Nature Conservation (SINCs) inHampshire, including fields designated for use by Brent Geese. These arecounty-based, non-statutory designations which identify sites of natureconservation interest. See Map 4 (page 10).301Chichester Harbour Site of Special Scientific Interest designation (1970). Natural England (English Nature).2Waterbirds in the UK 2005/06. The Wetland Bird Survey.3Natural England (English Nature) data (2003)4www.conservancy.co.ukSubtidal survey of habitats and species within Chichester Harbour (2006). Sea-scope.5May 2009Countryside and Rights of Way Act (2000)6Chichester Harbour Conservancy GIS data

2. Policies & Actions - NatureThe draft Marine and Coastal Access Bill proposes to designate new MarineConservation Zones, although as yet proposals are unclear and any potentialimpacts on Chichester Harbour are unknown.George SpraggsThere are approximately 102 hectares 6 within the AONB which lie outside thenationally and internationally designated areas. These are often as rich in natureconservation terms and can also act as a buffer and additional wildlife resource.These high quality habitats and important concentrations of species contributesignificantly to natural beauty and landscape of the AONB, as well as enhancingthe visitor experience and quality of life for residents. Recent years have seen anincreasing awareness of the role of the natural environment in contributing tohealth and well-being and to the economy, leading to the emerging ‘EcosystemServices’ approach. Defra’s 2007 Introductory Guide to Valuing EcosystemServices provides the definition: ‘services provided by the natural environmentthat benefit people’, and provides a framework for valuing the natural environment.In addition to the statutory and legal obligations arising from the international andnational designations assigned to Chichester Harbour, management for natureconservation is also guided through the Biodiversity Action Plan process. Arevised Chichester Harbour Biodiversity Action Plan will be launched concurrentlywith this plan aiming to focus resources to conserve and enhance localbiodiversity by means of local partnerships, taking into account both national andcounty priorities and targets.RedshankSnakelocks AnemoneChichester Harbour AONB is therefore a complex area, not only in terms of thewide diversity of habitats and species found within it, but also in terms of thestatutory and non-statutory obligations placed on all partners in the delivery of theManagement Plan. The AONB is also an integral and important component in thesuite of internationally designated coastal and marine habitats of the southerncoast. There is, however, an ever-increasing threat to these important coastalhabitats and the species they support as sea levels rise and the coastal zone is‘squeezed’ and reduced in extent (see Map 7, page 12). Increasing developmentpressure, and the proposed housing targets within the draft Regional SpatialStrategy (South East Plan) raises concerns about related disturbance to habitatsand species. Conversely, new opportunities for habitat creation and expansionmay arise through managed re-alignment as the coastline of the Harbourchanges in response to sea level rise.Main issuesThe 2002 consultation workshops identified several main issues, many of whichare still relevant today. These were revised during the 2008 consultation process,and from experience of delivering the Management Plan over the past five years:► There are many statutory authorities with overlapping responsibilities.► Limited staff and financial resources available for implementing research andconservation projects.► Some locally important distinctive habitat types and species fall outside theprotected designations.► Some equally important intertidal areas fall outside the SSSI and SACdesignations.► Disturbance to wildlife from AONB users, which is likely to increase withcontinued residential development pressure.► An increasing threat to valuable habitats as a result of coastal squeeze, globalwarming and sea level rise.► A limited awareness amongst individuals of Chichester Harbour AONB’s natureconservation designations and the duty to avoid harming these habitats andspecies.Seascope► A limited knowledge of what individuals can do to enhance biodiversity andconserve nature.► Unexplained or inconsistent trends in wintering bird populations.www.conservancy.co.ukMay 200931

2. Policies & Actions - NatureActions to protect and enhance nature conservationRef Details Timing PolicyRef1-NC2-NC3-NC4-NC5-NC6-NC7-NC8-NC9-NC10-NC11-NC12-NC13-NC14-NC15-NC16-NCImplement the Chichester Harbour Biodiversity Action Plan aspart of the county and UK Biodiversity Action Plan process.Undertake positive conservation management onConservancy or Chichester Harbour Trust owned or managedland.Identify and map opportunities for habitat creation throughmanaged realignment.Demonstrate best practice and provide advice to influence andencourage landowners and land managers in the AONB tomanage land positively for nature conservation.Implement a survey and monitoring programme of speciesand habitats of conservation importance within the AONB.Make appropriate information on the nature conservation valueof Chichester Harbour AONB available to a wide audience, ofall ages through a variety of media.Influence the North Solent SMP and other relevant coastaldefence strategies to ensure protection and where possiblecreation of wildlife habitats.Investigate the potential/actual impact on species and habitatsby climate changeIdentify measures to mitigate against the adverse impact ofclimate change on species and habitats e.g. through habitatcreation schemesEvaluate and promote where possible, the value of EcosystemServices to the AONBIdentify and put forward for inclusion in statutory and nonstatutorydesignated areas, land of particular conservationvalue.Acquire suitable terrestrial and intertidal land of natureconservation value or potential to manage positively andsafeguard its future.Influence and encourage the uptake of suitable agrienvironmentscheme options to protect and enhance natureconservation.Provide advice to businesses, organisations and individuals tominimise the impact of new built development upon thebiodiversity of the AONBDevelop initiatives to further involve volunteers in the surveyand monitoring of nature conservation within the AONB.In collaboration with the Solent Wader and Brent goosestrategy identify and seek to protect current and future keywader roosts.HighOngoing(review y5)HighOngoing(review y5)HighOngoing(review y5)HighOngoing(review y5)High (seemonitoring,review &research)HighOngoing(review y5)HighOngoing(review y5)HighOngoing(review y5)HighOngoing(review y5)MediumOngoing(review y5)MediumOngoing(review y5)MediumOpportunisticMediumOngoing(review y5)MediumOngoing(review y5)MediumOngoing(review y5)MediumOngoing(review y5)NC1;NC2;NC3;NC4NC1;NC2;NC3;NC4LeadOrg(s)CHC; LAs;WildlifeTrusts;RSPBCHCPartnersLandowners;FWAG; ParishCouncils; NE &RAsFCH; CH TrustNC7 CHC Landowners; EA;NENC5;NC6NC4NC5NC6,NC7CHC;FWAG; NECHC; NE;LAs; WildlifeTrustsCHC; NE;LAs; WildlifeTrustsCHCLandowners; EA;Wildlife Trusts;RSPBLandowners;otherconservationorganisations; EAOtherconservationorganisations; EANorth SolentShorelineManagementGroupNC7 CHC; NE Local Authorities;RSPBNC7 CHC; NE LandownersNC2;NC3;NC5;NC6NC3;NC4NC1;NC2;NC3;NC4;NC7NC1;NC3;NC6NC5;NC6NC4;NC5NC2;NC6LAs; CHC;NECHC; NE;WildlifeTrustsCHC; LAs;WildlifeTrustsCHC; NECHC; LAs;NECHCCHC; NEEA; Wildlife TrustsLandowners;RSPB; EA; LAsLandowners;FWAG; NE; CHTrust; FCHFCHLandowners32www.conservancy.co.ukMay 2009

2. Policies & Actions - NatureLinks to other relevant plans and strategiesChichester Harbour Biodiversity Action Plan (2009)Conserving Nature for the Community: Hampshire County Council’s CorporateBiodiversity Action Plan (2005)Biodiversity Action Plan for Sussex (1998)Chichester District Local Biodiversity Action Plan (2007)Draft Regional Spatial Strategy for the South EastWest Sussex Structure Plan (2001-2016)Hampshire County Structure Plan (1996-2011)Chichester District Local Plan (1999) / LDF Core StrategyA Single Scheme of Management (2002) Solent European Marine Site ManagementGroupHavant Borough District-Wide Local Plan (1996-2011) / LDF Core StrategyNorth Solent Shoreline Management PlanWest Sussex Rural Strategy (2007)Sea Lavender and saltmarsh plantsWest Sussex Environment Strategy (2008)The role of lead organisations and partnersChichester Harbour Conservancy(CHC)Chichester Harbour Trust(CH Trust)LandownersLocal Authorities (LAs)Parish Councils and ResidentsAssociations (RAs)Natural England (NE)Environment AgencyFarming and Wildlife AdvisoryGroup (FWAG)RSPB, Wildlife Trusts and otherconservation organisationsFriends of Chichester Harbour(FCH)Local voluntary groupsNorth Solent ShorelineManagement GroupLandowner, land manager, advice,monitoringCharitable Trust seeking to acquireland within the AONBOwners and managers of land within theAONBLandowners, funding, LNR, SINC andSNCI designationRepresentatives of the local communityRegulatory body, funding, SSSIdesignation, advice, policyAdvice, funding, facilitatingFarming and wildlife adviceAdvice, supportVolunteer supporters, funding, awarenessraisingVolunteer supportCo-ordinating and writing the North SolentShoreline Management Planwww.conservancy.co.ukMay 200933

Section & ChapterPart 2Policies4F1 To develop initiatives thatencourage agricultural land use andassociated activities in sympathywith the environment and with regardto their impact upon the AONB’slandscape and nature conservationstatus.F2 To support local farmers and landmanagers through providingappropriate advice, training andinformation.F3 To influence and developschemes and initiatives whichbenefit the farming industry andprotect and enhance the specialqualities of the AONB.F4 To increase public understandingof the importance of the role offarming within the AONB throughawareness-raising and accessopportunities.Learning about the milking parlour at aFarm Open Day 2008Farming and the FarmedLandscape• The total area of farmland within the AONB is approximately 2,324 hectares 1 .• The pattern of agriculture in the AONB has fluctuated in accordance with changingeconomic circumstances and technological developments leading to changes incropping patterns, field sizes and shapes, farm building use, appearance and sizeand overall landscape character• Between 2004 and 2008 over 44,000 saplings were planted in the AONB as part ofthe Conservancy’s woodland and hedgerow planting programme 2 .• There are approximately 298 hectares of coastal grazing marsh within the AONB 1 .• The Conservancy has held three annual Public Farm Open Days to date, inpartnership with AONB farmers, with an average attendance of over 200 people 2 .• In total, 2,613 hectares of land within the AONB are in stewardship schemes with 23separate agreements 3 .BackgroundChichester Harbour AONB is 74km 2 , of which 40% is water at high tide. Theremaining area provides some of the richest agricultural land found anywhere inthe country. It is therefore intensively farmed, with some 2,300 hectares of landunder arable cropping, 735 hectares in permanent grassland, 104 hectares oforchards and 133 hectares comprising woodland 3 . Agriculture is the single mostimportant activity shaping the landscape in Chichester Harbour AONB. See Map8, (page 13). It is important to monitor landscape changes resulting fromchanging farming practices through the Landscape Character Assessment reviewprocess.The figures above provide a snapshot of the farming industry within ChichesterHarbour AONB in the 21st century. The pattern of agriculture has been subject tochange over the centuries as demands for particular produce and developmentsin technology have led to changes in cropping patterns and the overall landscapecharacter of the AONB. The number and size of land holdings has also changedduring the last 50 years, with a tendency for fewer but larger farm holdings.However, the growth of the horticultural industry, including crops grown underglass, in the AONB has contrasted with this and led to some fragmentation ofholdings in areas of highest quality soils 3 .The influences on agricultural practices in the AONB are related to wider issues –much depends upon the strength of the pound, the EU Agricultural Policy, worldcommodity markets and World Trade Organisation negotiations. The change inthe farming industry within Chichester Harbour AONB is set to continue, majorreforms to EU agricultural policy were introduced in the UK in 2005, mostsignificantly a move away from production based payments through the SinglePayment Scheme. Farmers receive payments for maintaining land in GoodAgricultural and Environmental Condition, rather than the production of specificcrops.The replacement of the Countryside Stewardship Scheme in 2005 byEnvironmental Stewardship, introduced a two tiered approach to agrienvironmentprovision. The Entry Level Scheme is open to all land managers todeliver simple but effective environmental management measures. The HigherLevel Scheme is a targeted scheme based upon the preceding schemes, offeringmore complex and tailored options for sustainable land management. Uptake ofall these schemes has been good within the AONB with 11 farms and 998hectares within Entry Level (including organic), five farms and 592 hectares withinthe Higher Level tier (including organic) and 1023 hectares with older schemessuch as Countryside Stewardship 3 .341Chichester Harbour Conservancy GIS data2Chichester Harbour Conservancy data3Natural England www.conservancy.co.ukdata August 2008May 2009

2. Policies & Actions - FarmingFarmers are looking for alternative options to increase their income and helpsecure a long-term future. Opportunities to diversify the farm business andbuildings and of selling products direct to local people are just a couple of optionsopen to farmers. It is important to help farmers choose options which are inkeeping with the special qualities of Chichester Harbour AONB, particularly wherehigh costs are associated with the maintenance of traditional farm buildings thathave no suitable agricultural or limited alternative uses.The farmed landscape is an important component of Chichester Harbour AONB,both in landscape and wildlife terms. Farming, driven largely by market forces,faces increasing challenges relating to changing economic conditions and theimpact of climate change. The way that farming responds to these changes willinevitably impact upon the landscape and wildlife of the AONB. The Conservancyin partnership with a number of organisations (such as the Farming and WildlifeAdvisory Group) seeks to support farmers and landowners through providingadvice on environmental land management options (such as tree and hedgerowplanting), potential sources of funding, and through developing markets for localproduce. There is also a need to increase the public’s understanding andawareness of the pressures on farming and traditional land management and howfarming helps to shape the landscape of the AONB. Farmers themselves could behelped to understand how they can contribute to and maintain the specialqualities of the AONB.Main issuesThe 2002 consultation workshops identified several main issues, many of whichare still relevant today. These were revised during the 2008 consultation process,and from experience of delivering the Management Plan over the past five years:► Management is by consent with landowners or land managers rather thanownership, and acquisition or long-term lease may be better alternatives in somecases.► Farming is under increasing pressure to diversify, which can lead to a loss ofthe traditional landscape character. Resources or innovative ideas will have to beutilised to retain the undeveloped quality of Chichester Harbour AONB.► There is limited financial support for sympathetic farming and landmanagement methods.► Some farmers and landowners are not fully aware of or disregard the impact oftheir activities on the landscape.► There has been an industrialisation of the rural farming character through amove to horticulture.► A lack of livestock farming and loss of traditional management and value of,grazing marshes.► The conversion of redundant traditional farm buildings to residential or ruralindustrial use removing them from the farming infrastructure.► A lack of local product marketing within Chichester Harbour AONB andunknown level of local public support for such initiatives.► A low level of public understanding and awareness of the pressures on farmingand traditions of land management in helping to shape the landscape of theAONB.► It is often difficult to determine from where to seek advice, information andappropriate funding.► The threat of nitrates and pesticides (diffuse pollution) entering the water fromthe surrounding land.► Farming faces increasing challenges from rising production costs and climatechange, which may in turn impact on the AONB through change in farmingpractices and diversification.www.conservancy.co.ukMay 200935

2. Policies & Actions - FarmingActions to enhance the farmed landscapeRef Details Timing PolicyRef1-F In partnership with landowners, identify and promote opportunitiesfor agri-environment schemes.2-F Provide support and advice to farmers on appropriatediversification options within the AONB to retain the landscape andconservation value.3-F Support initiatives which promote local marketing, processing anddistribution of high quality distinctive local food demonstrating goodenvironmental credentials.HighOngoing(review y5)HighOngoing(review y5)HighOngoing(review y5)4-F Provide examples of farming best practice in the AONB. HighOngoing(review y5)5-F Seek opportunities for appropriate habitat creation or restoration. MediumOngoing(review y5)6-F Minimise or prevent the impact of new agricultural buildingsthrough the planning process7-F Seek opportunities to minimize the landscape impact of existingagricultural buildings and infrastructure8-F Provide advice to farmers and land managers on managementtechniques that enhance the nature conservation and landscapevalue of farms within the AONB.9-F Advise farmers and landowners on agri-environment schemes andother grant sources that support landscape and habitatimprovements.10-F Provide a central contact and co-ordinating role for landownersand land managers within the AONB who wish to carry outenvironmental improvements.11-F Identify and promote methods to reduce diffuse pollution enteringthe Harbour from surrounding agricultural land.12-F Seek appropriate permissive access and educational opportunitieswithin the farmed landscape of the AONB.13-F Hold public farm open days with partners to raise awareness of theimportance of farming in the AONB.14-F Work with farmers and landowners to identify and progressappropriate sites for managed realignment scheme15-F Support farmers in adapting and responding to the impacts ofclimate change.MediumOngoing(review y5)MediumOngoing(review y5)MediumOngoing(review y5)MediumOngoing(review y5)MediumOngoing(review y5)MediumOngoing(review y5)MediumOngoing(review y5)MediumOngoing(review y5)MediumOngoing(review y5)MediumOngoing(review y5)LeadOrg(s)F1; F2 CHC;NEF1; F2 FWAG;NE; FCF1; F3 CHC;FWAG;LAsPartnersLandowners andfarmers; FWAGFCCHC; LAsLandowners andfarmers; SEEDA;NE; GOSE; ThreeHarbours BeefF1 CHC Three HarboursBeef; CH TrustF1; F2;F3CHC;FWAG;FCNEF1; F3 CHC LAsF1 CHC;FWAG;FCF1; F2 CHC;FWAG;FCF1; F2;F3CHC;FWAG;FCLAs; NENELandowners andfarmers; NEF1; F2 CHC FWAG; NE; FCF1F4F4F1F2CHC;FWAG,EALandowners;CHC;FWAGCHC;ThreeHarboursBeefCHC;LandownersCHC;FWAG,NEWildlife TrustsNE; LAs; CHTrust; ThreeHarbours BeefFWAG;LandownersNE; EA36www.conservancy.co.ukMay 2009

2. Policies & Actions - FarmingLinks to other relevant plans and strategiesThe Hampshire Landscape: a Strategy for the Future (2000)Landscape Assessment of West Sussex (1995)Towards Tomorrows Countryside (2001) Countryside AgencyWorking for the Essentials of Life (2002) DEFRAFarming and food: Our healthy Future - Delivery plan for sustainable food and farmingin the South-East and London (2003) GOSE and SEEDAHavant Borough Townscape, Landscape and Seascape Character Assessment (2007)West Sussex Rural Strategy (2007)The role of lead organisations and partnersLocal Produce on sale at a Public Farm Open DayChichester Harbour Conservancy(CHC)Landowners and farmersNatural England (NE)South East England DevelopmentAgency (SEEDA)Government Office of the SouthEast (GOSE)Forestry Commission (FC)Local Authorities (LAs)Farming and Wildlife AdvisoryGroup (FWAG)Wildlife TrustsCo-ordination, support andimplementationOwners and managers of land in theAONBPolicy advice, ecological advice andfunding.Regional policy, advice and fundingRegional policy, advice and fundingFunding, adviceLocal planning authorities, funding,promotion, adviceFarming and wildlife adviceCounty conservation charities; advice,support; joint initiativesChichester Harbour Trust (CH Trust) Charitable Trust seeking to acquire landwithin the AONBHerd of Belted Galloways grazingnear ItchenorSouth East England DevelopmentAgency (SEEDA)Government Office South East(GOSE)Environment Agency (EA)Three Harbours BeefRegional development agency for thesouth eastRepresenting central governmentAdvice, funding, facilitatingMarketing locally produced beefwww.conservancy.co.ukMay 200937

Section & ChapterPart 2Policies5HE1 To seek to ensure that thehistoric and archaeological resourceof the AONB both on land and belowthe water is recorded, monitored andwhere possible managed positively.HE2 To continue to strengthenpartnerships and contribute to theknowledge base for themanagement of the cultural heritageof the AONB.HE3 To raise public awareness ofthe historic and cultural value of theAONB, realise its full potential as alearning resource and economicasset to the local community andencourage participation in heritageevents and research.The Historic Environment• Chichester Harbour AONB contains an archaeological record dating from thePalaeolithic period (450,000-12,000 BC) to modern times.• Field patterns within the AONB still reflect the period in which they were created,including open field patterns of the medieval period which were later enclosed underthe Parliament Enclosure Acts of the 19th century 1 .• The AONB is generally considered to have the largest historical concentration of tidemills in the country 1 .• It was from Bosham that King Harold sailed to Normandy in 1064 – the event andBosham Church are shown on the Bayeux Tapestry 2 .• In 1670 Dell Quay was officially made the sole ‘port of entry’ for Chichester Harbour 2 .• Within the AONB there are 233 listed sites and buildings in West Sussex and 124lying within Hampshire.• There are four Scheduled Ancient Monuments lying wholly or partly within the AONB:Fishbourne Roman Palace, Tournerbury Hillfort, Warblington Castle and theassociated Black Barn 2 .BackgroundChichester Harbour AONB contains an important legacy of human use andhabitation, including landscape features spanning all periods of history,archaeological sites and historic buildings. Artefacts dating back to the Mesolithicperiod (12,000 – 4,000BC) have been found in the AONB, with evidence of IronAge (650 BC to AD 43) and in particular Roman occupation recorded throughoutthe AONB 2 .Excavating the Roman Tilery near Dell QuayThe villages of the AONB have all evolved over the centuries from clusters ofhouses identified in the Domesday Book, with the historic core of each of thesevillages generally located on or very close to the harbourside. Each of the villageshas its own distinctive character, reflecting its origins and development. Many arenow identified as Conservation Areas and make a significant contribution to theoverall landscape character of the AONB. There are also 18th and 19th centuryfarm houses, rectories and historic houses 1 .Most of the archaeological and historical features found within the AONB areirreplaceable (see Map 5, page 11) and should not be needlessly or thoughtlesslydamaged. It is therefore important to identify and appropriately record thesefeatures of interest on the Hampshire County, West Sussex County andChichester District Historic Environment Records and seek ways to protect themin the future through both projects and policies. The Sussex Historic LandscapeCharacterisation will also play a valuable role in not only identifying key historicfeatures but will help link the historic character of the AONB with that of thelandscape. Havant Borough’s Townscape, Landscape and Seascape CharacterAssessment includes Historic Influences in the descriptions of each characterarea. The ongoing AONB Condition Assessment programme seeks to monitorand provide management recommendations for sites considered to be at risk,from either human or natural processes.The cultural history of Chichester Harbour AONB is also reflected and recorded inits landscape, the remnants and legacy of past industries and through the namesof houses, farms, streets and villages. Some of this rich history has beenrecorded in books, poetry and art but much information is still held informally bylocal people and has yet to be formally recorded. Some work has already beendone to record the oral history of the AONBs senior residents.381Chichester Harbour AONB Landscape Character Assessment (2005). Chris Blandford Associates2Chichester Harbour Archaeological Research Framework (2004) MoLASwww.conservancy.co.ukMay 2009

2. Policies & Actions - HistoryThe Heritage Lottery Funded 2004 Archaeological Research Framework andaccompanying 2007 research synthesis provide a comprehensive baseline of thearchaeological resource of the AONB. The HLF programme developed a strongarchaeology partnership through a steering group that continues to overseeresearch within the AONB. Through this work we can engage with local schools,visitors, landowners and residents within the AONB to help develop a widerunderstanding and appreciation of the historical value and needs of the AONB.Through schemes such as the Local Heritage Initiative and Your Heritage localcommunities can be encouraged to take the lead in identifying and looking aftertheir local built, natural, archaeological, cultural or historical heritage.Main issuesThe 2002 consultation workshops identified several main issues, many of whichare still relevant today. These were revised during the 2008 consultation process,and from experience of delivering the Management Plan over the past five years:World War II Pill Box at Mengeham► It is important to have a comprehensive and developing understanding of thearchaeological resource of the AONB► The significance of the AONB’s cultural heritage needs to be communicated tothe public and wider community and through the Conservancy’s education andinterpretation programme.► It is key to maintain formal partnerships involving relevant organisations toeffectively manage the historic environment of the AONB.► Ongoing recording and monitoring of archaeological sites at risk is important topreserve an accurate record for the future and to address threats (e.g. coastalerosion) and promote sensitive management.Actions to protect the historic environmentRef Details Timing PolicyRefLeadOrg(s)Partners1-H Use the Chichester Harbour AONB Planning Guidelines to helpprotect and conserve the AONB’s historic environment throughthe planning process.2-H Promote the historical, archaeological and cultural value of theAONB and disseminate the results of archaeological research toa wide audience through a variety of methods and media.3-H Carry out an Historical Character Assessment of ChichesterHarbour AONB to link in with the West Sussex Historic PhaseOne Landscape Assessment to identify and record the historiclandscape character of the AONB.4-H Maintain the Chichester Harbour Archaeological Partnership toadvise the management of the AONB heritage resource.5-H Provide advice to landowners on funding opportunities for thefuture protection and appropriate management of historic,archaeological and cultural features.6-H Using the results of the Archaeological Framework, prioritise andcommission research both within and around the AONB, to guidethe management of the historic environment.7-H Encourage and support communities to seek funding to developlocal heritage projects and initiatives.8-H Continue to support ongoing field work programmes inpartnership with local archaeological volunteers (Field Walking;Condition Assessment)9-H Maintain and provide access to the relevant Historic EnvironmentRecords, which are maintained and developed in line with bestpractice and government guidance.www.conservancy.co.ukMay 2009MediumOngoing(review y5)HighOngoing(review y5)Medium(review y5)MediumOngoing(review y5)MediumOngoing(review y5)MediumOngoing(review y5)MediumOngoing(review y5)MediumOngoing(review y5)MediumOngoing(review y5)HE2;HE3CHCLAs; NE; EHHE3 CHC HWTMA, LAs,EH, CDAS,EMHTHE1;HE2HE2;HE3HE1;HE2HE1;HE2;HE3HE1;HE2;HE1;HE2;HE3HE1;HE2;HE3LAs; EHCHCNE; LAs; EHCHCCHC; PC;Residents’AssociationsCHCHistoricEnvironmentRecord holdersCHC; NE; Otherarchaeological /historical trusts &orgsLAs; EH; CDAS,HWTMACHC; otherarchaeological /historical trustsand organisationsHWTMA; LAs;EH; CDAS,EMHTNE; EHCDAS, LAsCHC, EH, LAs,other archaeologicalorganisations39

2. Policies & Actions - HistoryLinks to other relevant plans and strategiesThe Historic Environment - A Force for our Future (2001) Department of Culture Mediaand SportPower of Place (2000) English HeritagePlanning White Paper (2002) Department for Transport, Local Government and theRegionsDraft Heritage Protection Bill (2008)Chichester District LDF Core StrategyHavant Borough LDF Core StrategyWest Sussex Structure Plan (2001-2016)Historic Landscape Assessments for HampshireStrategy for Wetlands - English HeritageEngland’s Coastal Heritage (1996) English Heritage and the Royal Commission on theHistorical Monuments of EnglandArchaeology Strategy for West Sussex (1995) West Sussex County CouncilWest Sussex Historic Landscape CharacterisationHampshire County Council Historic Environment RecordWest Sussex County Council Historic Environment RecordChichester District Historic Environment RecordChichester District Council Cultural StrategyEnglish Heritage Research AgendaThe Grainstore at Dell Quay was renovated withhelp from the Heritage Lottery FundChichester Harbour AONB Archaeological Research FrameworkThe role of lead organisations and partnersChichester Harbour Conservancy(CHC)Local Authorities - includingPlanning Authorities (LAs)English Heritage (EH)Hampshire and Wight Trust forMaritime Archaeology (HWTMA)Other archaeological / historicaltrusts and organisationsParish Councils (PCs) andResidents’ AssociationsLandownersNatural England (NE)Chichester and DistrictArchaeology Society (CDAS)Co-ordination, support andimplementationProtection through planning control,recording, expertise, funding, HistoricEnvironment Records, specialist advice,and historic environment adviceExpert advice, statutory protection,recording, fundingExpert advice, recording, disseminationSussex Archaeological Society;Emsworth Maritime and Historical TrustRepresentatives of local communitiesLandowners within the AONBFunding through agri-environmentschemes to conserve archaeologicalsites, historic landscapes and historicfeatures and buildingsCoordinating volunteer field workprogrammes, providing advice andpractical support40www.conservancy.co.ukMay 2009

PoliciesPart 26BD1 To ensure that all proposeddevelopment is sustainable andconserves, and wherever possible,enhances the landscape of theAONB and protects its setting.BD2 To seek to ensure thatdevelopment complies with theprotective framework for sitesdesignated for nature conservation.BD3 To seek to ensure that thesocio-economic activities supportingthe AONB and its communities, aretaken into account in the planningprocess.BD4 To influence regional and localspatial planning processes.The Conservancy considers around 300planning applications per yearBuildings and Development• The Conservancy considers an average of 300 planning applications fordevelopment within the AONB each year 1 .• There are 97.2 hectares of the AONB which are designated as Conservation Areas 2 .• New design guidance for new dwellings and extensions within the AONB waspublished in 2007 by the Conservancy in partnership with the two local planningauthorities.• There are an estimated 4,186 dwellings within the AONB with an average of fiverooms. Detatched properties make up 49% of the housing stock 3 .• Second homes represent 14% of the residential dwellings in the AONB 3 .• Residential properties in the AONB are valued at nearly £2.1 billion, with an averagehouse price of 513,765 (compared to the south-east average of £222,831) 3 .BackgroundNationally protected landscapes, either AONBs or National Parks, have uniquecharacteristics which make them attractive places to live, work and spend leisuretime. This has led to pressure to increase the size of settlements, to in-fill withinSettlement Policy Areas and, increasingly, to the construction of more substantialdwellings. This trend has become a dominant force in changing the landscape ofthe AONB. Chichester Harbour Conservancy and its partner authorities need toensure that new development, traffic and visitor impacts do not erode the featuresthat make Chichester Harbour AONB distinctive, locally, regionally and nationally.The relatively small size of the AONB has generally precluded any large new‘green-field’ developments. Today the majority of the planning applications are forthe enlargement of existing dwellings, infilling between existing housing andconversion of farm buildings. In many cases the re-development of shoresideproperties has increased the demand for intertidal structures, such as jetties andslipways, that reduce the natural appearance of the foreshore and impact ondesignated sites for nature conservation. Changes in farming practice (seeFarming and the Farmed Landscape, page 34) have also seen a rise in thenumber of applications for agricultural buildings.Protecting the AONB cannot be done without recognising the importance of itssetting within surrounding farmland. Equal consideration should be given todevelopment proposals on its borders which may have an impact on the AONBitself.The Conservancy, as the Joint Advisory Committee for the AONB, is a nonstatutoryconsultee within the planning system. An established PlanningCommittee examines planning applications within or adjacent to the AONB on amonthly basis. This Committee is informed by the Planning Guidelines detailed inAppendix 3. These Guidelines, written in consultation with local planningauthorities, seek to ensure that through the planning process a balance can besought between the protection of the landscape, nature conservation andrecreation interests and support for the local economy.Agriculture and local industries must be able to evolve and adapt to changingcircumstances. Local communities also have a role to play in the planningprocess. Their involvement in the development of Village Design Statements andParish Plans is seen as important in identifying local needs and local design andthese documents offer useful guidance in the planning process within the AONB.The Itchenor, West Wittering, Emsworth and Northney and Tye Village DesignStatements have been adopted as supplementary planning guidance.1Chichester Harbour Conservancy annual report data2Chichester Harbourwww.conservancy.co.ukConservancy GIS data3Valuing Chichester Harbour May 2009 (2009) UE Associates Ltd4Chichester Harbour AONB Landscape Character Assessment (2005). Chris Blandford Associates41

2. Policies & Actions -BuildingsAt present, household growth within the surrounding region is not keeping pacewith economic growth. The Regional Spatial Strategy for the South East (SouthEast Plan) and Local Development Frameworks identify the need for new housingleading to pressure for new development sites, with their associatedinfrastructure. Future strategic development allocation on the edge of Chichestercould indirectly affect the character of the AONB through increased disturbance,noise and light pollution, visual intrusion and loss of views, water quality issuesand a loss of tranquillity and sense of wilderness 4 . Particular concerns are raisedat the ability of current waste water treatment facilities to cope with increasedhousing development, and of the impacts of increased disturbance on thedesignated site.Urban extensions around Chichester, Fishbourne, Southbourne, Emsworth andHavant could potentially lead to the loss of the distinctive identity of associatedsmaller settlements and the loss of open views through to the AONB.The provisions of the draft Marine and Coastal Access Bill include proposals for anew marine spatial planning system. As yet it is unclear how this system willintegrate with the existing land-based planning policy framework.Main issuesThe 2002 consultation workshops identified several main issues, many of whichare still relevant today. These were revised during the 2008 consultation process,and from experience of delivering the Management Plan over the past five years:► An increasing number of planning applications are consented annually, leadingto a potential loss of AONB rural character.► Incremental damage to the rural character of the AONB from extensions,‘small’ developments and infilling between houses.► The limited knowledge by developers of the AONB, resulting in unsuitabledevelopments being proposed.► The conversion of farm buildings to residential properties leading to a loss ofrural character.► A lack of affordable housing for key workers in farming and marine industries,which is amplified by a high proportion of second home ownership.► There is a need for specific AONB involvement in strategic planning issues, forexample input into Regional Planning Guidance, Structure and Local Plans andtheir successors.There is a variety of building stylesalong the shoreline at Bosham► A need to review the Chichester Harbour Landscape Character Assessment atregular intervals to monitor landscape change.► Increasing concern at the disturbance caused to nature conservation interestsby increased recreational pressure from housing development.► Serious concerns have been raised at the ability of waste water treatmentfacilities to cope with current and future housing development.42www.conservancy.co.ukMay 2009

2. Policies & Actions -BuildingsActions to ensure only appropriate development occurs in the AONBRef Details Timing Policy Ref LeadOrg(s)Partners1-BD2-BD3-BD4-BD5-BD6-BD7-BD8-BD9-BDRespond to all planning applications to ensure theconservation, and where possible enhancement, of theremote and tranquil nature of the AONB and compliance withnature conservation designations.Use the AONB Planning Guidelines (Appendix 3) to guide theconsideration of the AONB planning sub-committee whenconsidering planning applications.Work with local Parish Councils to produce building designguidance, Village Design Statements and Parish Plans, andsupport their adoption as Supplementary Planning Guidanceor material consideration.Provide pre-application advice and information to developers,Parish Councils and other relevant bodiesIdentify land outside the AONB of sufficient size and ruralquality to act as an effective development buffer zone to theAONB.Maintain an up-to-date database of planning applicationsreceived within or adjacent to the AONBMonitor and respond to changes to the spatial planningsystem that affect the AONB and advise the planning subcommitteeand partners accordingly.Use data on the impacts of disturbance from development inor adjacent to the AONB to inform and influence the spatialplanning process.Through the development control process ensure all newdevelopments within or adjacent to the AONB have adequatewaste water provision.HighOngoing(review y5)HighOngoing(review y5)HighOngoing(review y5)HighOngoing(review y5)HighOngoing(review y5)HighOngoing(review y5)HighOngoing(review y5)HighOngoing(review y5)HighOngoing(review y5)BD1; BD2;BD3BD1; BD2;BD3; BD4CHCCHCLPAsLPAs; SEERABD1; BD4 CHC PC; LPAs; NE;Resident’sAssociationsBD1; BD2;BD3; BD4BD1; BD4BD1; BD2;BD3; BD4BD1; BD2;BD3; BD4BD1; BD4CHCCHC,CH TrustCHCCHCCHC;NELPAs; PCLPAsLPAsBD1; BD2 LPAs CHC10-BD11-BD12-BD13-BDIn partnership with the Local Planning Authorities, produce aseries of AONB design guidance on specific topics andpromote this guidance to residents and developers.Update and review the Landscape Character Assessment2005 to inform planning responses within the AONB.Encourage developers to provide affordable housing for keyworkers within the AONB.Continue to build relationships between planning officers andprovide opportunities for training and sharing experienceMediumOngoing(review y5)MediumOngoing(review y5)MediumOngoing(review y5)MediumOngoing(review y5)14-BD Liaise with South East AONBs on relevant planning issues MediumOngoing(review y5)15-BDThrough the planning process promote the creation ofaccessible green space and sustainable transport optionsMediumOngoing(review y5)BD1; BD2;BD3; BD4BD1; BD2;BD3; BD4BD3CHCCHCLPAsLPAsLPAsBD1 CHC LPAsBD1; BD4BD1; BD4CHCCHC;LPAswww.conservancy.co.ukMay 200943

2. Policies & Actions -BuildingsLinks to other relevant plans and strategiesWest Sussex Structure Plan (2001-2016)Hampshire County Structure Plan (1996-2011)Chichester District Local Plan (1999) / LDF Core StrategyHavant Borough District-Wide Local Plan (1996-2011) / LDF Core StrategyDraft Regional Spatial Strategy for the South EastNorth Solent Shoreline Management PlanThe role of lead organisations and partnersChichester Harbour Conservancy(CHC)Local Planning Authorities (LPAs)South East England RegionalAssembly (SEERA)Parish Councils (PC) andResident’s AssociationsLandownersNatural England (NE)Chichester Harbour Trust(CH Trust)Advice, co-ordination, planningconsulteeChichester District Council and HavantBorough Council - planning authorities;developing local planning framework;guidanceRegional planning frameworkParish Plans and Village DesignStatementsOwners of land within the AONBPolicy advice; funding, statutory consulteefor designated sitesCharitable Trust seeking to acquire landwithin the AONBAONB Design Guidelines for newbuildings and extensionsA traditional brick and flint house inChidham Village44www.conservancy.co.ukMay 2009

PoliciesPart 27RB1 To support local businesseswhich have a traditional associationwith the AONB, are consistent withthe landscape and conservationinterests and cater for a balance ofusers and local communities.RB2 To support and offer advice onsustainable development in theAONB which supports social andeconomic well-being, withoutdetracting from the landscape orconservation value of the AONB.RB3 Provide consistent advice andguidance on environmentalregulations and environmentalthreats to local businesses to enableadaptation and long-term planning.Running a Business inChichester Harbour AONB• The Harbour provides over 5,200 moorings and berths within its marinas, boatyardsand open channels 1 .• 16% of the people questioned in the 2007/08 Visitor Survey visited a pub or tea roomin the AONB during their visit 2 .• 67% of visitors to the AONB stayed within the AONB itself at local hotels,caravan/campsites, B&Bs and self-catering accommodation 2 .• In 2001 there were estimated to be 37 farms, nurseries and stables within the AONBand 128 businesses within the urban area of Emsworth alone 4 .BackgroundCommercial activities, both past and present, have formed much of the characterof Chichester Harbour AONB. The recreational focus of the Harbour means thatthere are none of the major industries typically associated with ports andharbours within the AONB. However, waterborne recreation supports a widerange of industries associated with boating traditions, which reflect the history andcharacter of the AONB, and the boating activity makes a substantial contributionto the local and regional economy. Boat-building skills and the yards whichpractised them are being lost as modern materials and techniques are used in theindustry. There still remains, however, a demand for these traditional skills.The coastal location makes Chichester Harbour AONB an attractive tourismlocation and helps a variety of businesses, such as hotels, guesthouses,restaurants and pubs, to provide services for those visiting the AONB. In 2001there were 380 businesses in the AONB. Water-specific businesses, such as thewater taxi, Harbour Tours boat and boat training, are more specifically targeted atthose visitors who come to enjoy the Harbour. Because of the large numbers ofvisitors coming to the AONB each year, these can often be successful ventures –for example, the Harbour Tours boat can take 14,000 passengers per year. Thecombined value of tourist-related activities in the AONB is estimated at £44million 5 .The Old House at Home, ChidhamThe Chichester Harbour AONB Visitor Survey (2007/08) found that most visitorsto the AONB come for short breaks or are day visitors. Their numbers amount toan estimated 1.5 million visitors each year and are increasing yearly 3 . If thiscurrent trend continues then the demand for the products and services offered bymany businesses in the AONB will also grow. A balance needs to be reachedwhere businesses can develop and expand in line with the AONB PlanningGuidelines (see Appendix 3), but without diminishing the special qualities, peaceand tranquillity and nature conservation importance of the resource that theircustomers come to enjoy.Not all the businesses within the AONB are tourism-focused nor directly related toboating and yachting. Shops, offices and other commercial operations all provideservices and employment to those who live and work within the AONB, and canattract valuable income from outside the area. There is also a need to ensure thatthere is sufficient, affordable housing for key workers who are employed withinthe AONB whose work meets the needs of residents and visitors alike, and whohelp support the area’s special qualities and sustainable use.1Chichester Harbour Conservancy data 20082Survey of Land-based Recreation 2007/08. Chichester Harbour Conservancy3A survey of Recreation in Chichester Harbour: Land and Water (1993) Chichester Harbour Conservancy4Valuing Chichester www.conservancy.co.ukHarbour 20015Valuing Chichester Harbour May 2009 (2009) UE Associates Ltd45

2. Policies & Actions -BusinessMain issuesThe 2002 consultation workshops identified several main issues, many of whichare still relevant today. These were revised during the 2008 consultation process,and from experience of delivering the Management Plan over the past five years:► There is an inconsistency in advice given by different organisations tobusinesses on environmental regulations.► The AONB is divided up between different Local Authorities.► Increasing business rates and environmental constraints lead to diminishingprofitability.► A shift towards more modern boats, resulting in a loss of traditional boatbuilding skills.► A loss of boatyards through residential development pressure.Bosham Walk craft centre► The seasonal arrival of visitors and popular locations and activities createscongestion at peak times, and there are few business opportunities developed inthe weekdays and winter season to relieve this.► A lack of a full understanding of the area’s visitor carrying capacity both on andoff the water.► A lack of co-ordination and co-operation between local businesses to identifyjoint funding, and marketing opportunities, for example mobile shops, linkinginfrastructure to water tours and other local businesses.► The high residential property value competes with the profitability of runningbusinesses and creates a shortage of affordable housing for employees.► A lack of awareness of the term ‘AONB’ as a marketing tool – promotionshould refer to ‘Chichester Harbour AONB’ as this is more widely recognised.► The natural environmental threats to business such as the uncertaintysurrounding climate change and sea level rise.► The impact of poor water quality on the AONB businesses.► The increase in local crime, particularly car break-ins, affects visitors andcustomers.► The need for educational interpretation materials to be readily available forvisitors to help them understand and enjoy the AONB.Actions to support local businesses appropriate to the AONBRef Details Timing PolicyRefLeadOrg(s)Partners1-RB2-RB3-RB4-RBCarry out a visitor survey within the AONB every five years toprovide information to businesses on the needs of visitors, tohelp them develop effectively and sustainably.Provide advice and support to boatyards and marine businesseswithin the AONB.Promote local business partnerships and opportunities, includingco-operative initiatives that support the landscape andconservation goals of the AONB.Support Green Tourism initiatives by providing advice andinformation to visitors and accommodation providers on thesustainable use of the AONB.HighYear 3HighOngoing(review y5)MediumOngoing(review y5)MediumOngoing(review y5)RB2 CHC LAs; NERB1;RB2;RB3RB1;RB2;RB3RB1;RB2CHCLAsTourismSouthEastBMF;local businesses;business developmentorganisationsCHC; FWAG; localbusinesses; businessdevelopmentorganisationsCHC; NE; localbusinesses; businessdevelopmentorganisations46www.conservancy.co.ukMay 2009

2. Policies & Actions -BusinessActions to support local businesses appropriate to the AONB (continued)Ref Details Timing PolicyRef5-RB6-RB7-RB8-RB9-RBProvide local businesses with up-to-date information on climatechange and sea level rise and how to adapt to it.Provide information to boating-related businesses onenvironmental legislation and regulations relevant to theirbusinesses through a revised Environmental Code of Practice.Protect boatyards and existing marine related harboursidebusinesses from residential and other non-marine relateddevelopment.Provide advice on funding sources for sustainable developmentinitiatives.Develop communications between businesses within the AONBand Chichester Harbour Conservancy to provide up to date andrelevant information.Links to other relevant plans and strategiesWest Sussex Structure Plan (2001-2016)Hampshire County Structure Plan (1996-2011)Chichester District Local Plan (1999) / LDF Core StrategyHavant Borough District-Wide Local Plan (1996-2011) / LDF Core StrategySouth East England Regional Assembly: Destination South East – A Regional SpatialPlanning Strategy for TourismRegional Tourism Strategy (2003) Tourism South EastHampshire County Council’s Strategic Direction for the Visitor Economy 2007-2012(in progress)SEEDA Water Front StrategyWest Sussex Economic StrategyMediumOngoing(review y5)MediumOngoing(review y5)MediumOngoing(review y5)MediumOngoing(review y5)MediumOngoing(review y5)RB3RB3LeadOrg(s)LA; EA;NEBMF;EAThe role of lead organisations and partnersPartnersCHCCH FedRB2 CHC LAsRB2RB1;RB2;RB3CHC;LAsCHCNELocalbusinessessPremier Marina, the second largest marina inthe country at BirdhamChichester Harbour Conservancy(CHC)Local Authorities (LAs)Local businessesAdvice, research, information,co-ordinationLocal initiatives, promotion, funding,planning, adviceTarget audience, provision of services tovisitors and residentsFarming and Wildlife Advisory Group Farming and wildlife advice, promotion of(FWAG)locally produced meatEnvironment Agency (EA)Natural England (NE)National policy, advice, fundingAdvice, funding, national policydevelopment and guidanceBusiness development organisations Advice, funding, support to localbusinessesTourism South EastBritish Marine Federation (BMF)Chichester Harbour Federation(CH Fed)www.conservancy.co.ukMay 2009Regional tourism strategiesProvides support, advice and training tomarine-related businessesRepresenting sailing interests47

PoliciesSection & ChapterPart 28WW1 To support responsible andsustainable commercial andrecreational fishing that ensureshealthy marine ecosystems andmaintains the quality, diversity andavailability of marine resources.WW2 To conserve, and wherepossible enhance and restore,marine biodiversity to ensurefavourable condition of the Europeansites.Fly fishing has grown in popularity inrecent yearsThe Working Water -Fishing, Angling andBait Digging• During the oyster fishing season of 2007/08, 58 tons of oysters were harvested fromChichester Harbour with a value of approximately £87,000 1 .• Seven charter fishing boats operate within Chichester Harbour generating an annualturnover in the region of £60,000 1 .• The total value of the Harbour to fishermen is estimated to be £245,500, includingcatches from the oyster, cuttlefish and cockle fleets 2 .BackgroundHistorically oyster dredging, which operates during the winter months, has formedthe basis of the fishing industry of Chichester Harbour AONB together with smallamounts of net trawling for plaice and flounder. Nowadays, the oyster industry isrelatively small, as is net trawling activity, with about half a dozen small (under10m) trawlers operating, increasing in number during the winter when a few boatsfrom Selsey and the wider Solent join in the oyster dredging activity 1 . About10,000 amateur anglers fish in the Harbour during the year from the shore andboats, including charter boats, and the AONB is the only estuary in Sussex that isa designated nursery for sea bass. This means that bait digging also is a commonactivity in the Harbour, which is, to a degree only, controlled by byelaws andrequires close monitoring and control.The following types of fishing activities are undertaken by vessels operatingwithin Chichester Harbour: gill netting; cuttlefish trapping; oyster dredging; ottertrawling; rod and line; drift netting; and whelk potting. In terms of value, the mostimportant species landed in the harbour are: whelks, lobsters, cuttlefish, oystersand sole. However a diverse range of species are landed, including gurnard, greyand red mullet, sharks and rays 3 .48Roger YoungThe Chichester Harbour Conservancy Act 1971 states that the Conservancy shallhave ‘regard to the desirability of avoiding interference with Fisheries’ as part ofits management of the Harbour and AONB. Consequently, it has sought to workclosely with the Sussex Sea Fisheries District Committee, the EnvironmentAgency and Defra to ensure observance of fishery regulations within the Harbour.The draft Marine and Coastal Access Bill includes proposals to strengthen themanagement of marine fisheries. The Conservancy has no statutoryresponsibilities for the management of fisheries and at this stage the impacts ofthe Bill on Chichester Harbour are unclear.A survey of the fish population of Chichester Harbour carried out in 2004 by theUniversity of Portsmouth recorded 32 species, with Sand and Painted Gobies andBlack Bream the most abundant 2 . Also numerous at some sites were Bass,Ballan Wrasse and Corkwing Wrasse. Several species, such as the Bass, Bream,Mullet, Sole and Plaice use the harbour as a nursery area with a largepercentage of juveniles making up the survey samples 4 . The study showed thefish population to be stable when compared with results from 1999. A subtidalsurvey of habitats and species within the harbour by Sea-Scope in 2006 identified220 maritime taxa including invertebrates, algae and fish. The most widelyrecordedspecies include the slipper limpet, peacock worm and shore crab 5 . It isessential that our knowledge of the subtidal communities and the species theysupport matches that of the terrestrial environment, to ensure potential conflictcan be kept to a minimum.The marine environment of Chichester Harbour AONB is afforded protectionthrough the Solent Maritime SAC European designation. Closer scrutiny of theimpact of activities, such as oyster dredging and bait digging, on the subtidal andintertidal biodiversity within the AONB may be required in future to determine theimpact on favourable conservation status.1Adam Shaw, 2008. Report to the Conservancy on commercial fishing in Chichester Harbour2Valuing Chichester Harbour (2009) UE Associates Ltd3Sussex Sea Fisheries Committee4 www.conservancy.co.ukA Survey of the fish population of Chichester Harbour (2005). Paul Farrell, University of Portsmouth5Subtidal survey of habitats May 2009 and species within Chichester Harbour, West Sussex (2006). Sea-Scope

2. Policies & Actions - FishingSeaScopeMain issues identified at the 2002 ConsultationWorkshopThe 2002 consultation workshops identified several main issues, many of whichare still relevant today. These were revised during the 2008 consultation process,and from experience of delivering the Management Plan over the past five years:► The diminishing stocks of fish and shellfish within the Harbour.► The impact of bait digging on intertidal habitats and collection of bait forcommercial purposes.► The lack of comprehensive base line data and monitoring of the marinehabitats and species.► The lack of comprehensive knowledge of the impact of oyster dredging on themarine environment.Lobster► The high expense of carrying out detailed marine habitat survey work withprofessionals.► Illegal bass fishing.Actions to help support and guide water-based industriesRef Details Timing PolicyRefLeadOrg(s)Partners1-WW2-WW3-WW4-WW5-WW6-WW7-WW8-WW9-WW10-WW11-WWProvide information to the Solent European Marine SiteManagement Group to support the favourable status of theEuropean sites.Maintain facilities for the Harbour’s small commercial fishing fleetand the over-wintering of other local commercial fishing vessels.Monitor and update base line data on the marine habitats andspecies and continue a regular monitoring programme for key sitesin the Harbour; using volunteer divers where possible.Research and monitor the impact of fishing activities and baitdigging on the Harbour’s marine resources and habitats.Raise awareness of the needs of all users to promote safenavigation.Through seminars, workshops, conferences and representation onthe Solent Forum maintain close liaison between all relevantorganisations and other interested parties.Maintain representation of the local commercial and recreationalfishing interests in the management of the AONB through the JointAdvisory Committee.Provide information to the public on recreational fishingopportunities in the Harbour.Support the Sussex Sea Fisheries Committee in maintaining thebass nursery area.Support the bait digging Code of Conduct and work within theSEMS Management Scheme to monitor the level and impact ofbait digging.Liaise with Sussex Sea Fisheries and Defra to determine fishstocks and harvesting rates.HighOngoing(review y5)HighOngoing(review y5)HighOngoing(review y5)HighOngoingHighOngoing(review y5)MediumOngoing(review y5)MediumOngoing(review y5)MediumOngoing(review y5)MediumOngoing(review y5)MediumOngoingYears 1-5MediumOngoing(review y5)WW2WW1;WW2CHC;NECHCSEMSSSFC; fishermenWW2 CHC SEASEARCH;NEWW2 CHC Local fishingclubsWW1 CHC Fishermen; CHFedWW1;WW2WW1;WW2WW1;WW2WW1;WW2WW1;WW2WW1;WW2SSFC;NE; EA;SFCHCCHCCHCSEMSCHCBait diggers; localfishing clubs;DefraLocal fishingclubs; SSFC;fishermenLocal fishingclubsSSFC; localfishing clubsCHC; SSFC; localfishing clubs; NESSFC; Defrawww.conservancy.co.ukMay 200949

2. Policies & Actions - FishingLinks to other relevant plans and strategiesLocal Sea Fisheries Committee for the Sussex Sea Fisheries District byelawsSafeguarding our Seas: Strategy for Conservation and Sustainable Development of ourMarine Environment (2002) DefraA Single Scheme of Management (2002) Solent European Marine Site ManagementGroupStrategic Guide to the Solent (1997) Solent ForumThe role of lead organisations and partnersThe Conservancy supports responsibleand sustainable commercial fishingChichester Harbour Conservancy(CHC)DefraNatural England (NE)Environment Agency (EA)Local fishing clubsFishermenSEASEARCHSolent European Marine SiteManagement Group (SEMS)Sussex Sea Fisheries Committee(SSFC)Bait diggersSolent Forum (SF)Support and co-ordinationNational policy guidance, fundingSurvey, monitoring, advice, funding andregulationSurvey, monitoring, monitoring, advice,funding and regulationDissemination of information, activitiesCommercial usersResearch, monitoring, supportRegional policy, management guidanceEnforcement, byelaw making capacity forSussex and Hampshire (Southern SeaFisheries)Target audienceManagement partnership for the Solent50www.conservancy.co.ukMay 2009

PoliciesWQ1 To work with and lobbystatutory authorities to ensureprovision of water quality appropriateto the high conservation value andrecreational use of the AONB.WQ2 To minimise maritime pollutionand litter by ensuring that nopollution or littering results from theusers of the Harbour and itsfacilities.WQ3 To ensure water qualityinformation is available to the publicand harbour users.WQ4 To seek opportunities toreduce waste and promote recyclingand re-use.Part 29 DisposalWater Quality and Waste• There are three sewage treatment works discharging into Chichester Harbour.• The major source of nitrogen to the harbour is the Eastern Solent. Sewagedischarges contribute between 2–2.8% and streams contribute between 6.2–8.7% 1 .• The results of regular water quality testing at 11 sites within the Harbour are madeavailable to the public by the Conservancy and Chichester District Council 2 .• In 2008, 326 bags of litter were collected from the harbour shoreline by volunteers aspart of the Conservancy’s Harbour Watch scheme 3 .BackgroundThe water quality of Chichester Harbour AONB not only affects the health ofpeople, the environment and the plants and animals it supports, but can alsoaffect people’s enjoyment and use of the AONB and harbour. A reduction in waterquality can arise from excessive levels of bacteria, nutrients (nitrates andphosphates) and toxic substances (e.g heavy metals) entering the Harbour. Atcertain times of the year, this can lead to eutrophication and cause excessivegrowth of algal weed which smothers environmentally sensitive saltmarsh andmudflats, blocks water cooling intakes on vessels, slows small dinghies trying tosail in inter-tidal areas and results in an unpleasant smell when it is washed upand starts decomposing on the strandline.The harbour receives inputs from several sources which can affect its waterquality. These include diffuse sources such as natural and agricultural run-off andpoint sources such as freshwater streams and inflow from the wider Solent. Thereare three Waste Water Treatment Works (WWTWs) and eight combined outflowsdischarging into the Harbour. The three WWTWs have recently been upgraded sothat all sewage now receives Ultra Violet and bacterial treatment and nutrientstripping before it is discharged into the harbour. However, heavy storm watersand high groundwater conditions cause storm discharge events whereby sewagereceiving only primary treatment may be discharged into the harbour.Chichester’s sewage is processed at the ApuldramWaste Water Treatment WorksThe quality of water in Chichester Harbour is not statutorily assessed as bathingwater and is not therefore monitored in accordance with the EC Bathing WaterDirective by the regulator. However, the discharge of sewage into the Harbourmay have environmental health implications particularly for people enjoyingactivities on the water such as sailing and kayaking. Chichester HarbourConservancy in partnership with Chichester District Council undertakes amonitoring programme at 11 sites within the harbour. The results are presented inaccordance with EC Bathing Water standards to allow the public to assess thelevel of risk. The Environment Agency undertakes routine bacterial monitoringunder the EU Shellfish Waters Directive to ensure the safe harvesting of shellfish.A new piece of European legislation which will have an effect on water qualitywithin the Harbour is the Water Framework Directive. It aims to protect andimprove the chemical and ecological quality of rivers, estuaries, coastal watersand groundwaters by 2015 in the first instance. Each water body will be requiredto reach Good Chemical Status, Good Ecological Status (GES) and whereparameters for reaching these are affected by physical modifications within thewater body, a reduced level of Good Ecological Potential (GEP) will be required tobe reached. Chichester Harbour has been designated as a Heavily ModifiedWater Body (HMWB) and as such some of the parameters identified to reachGES will be affected by the physically modified nature of the Harbour, or its use,and as such GEP will be appropriate. This, however, will not relate to nutrientlevels or good chemical status, as these parameters are not affected by physicalmodification within the harbour or its navigational use. How each water bodyreaches the improved chemical and ecological quality will be identified in a seriesof Programmes of Measures (POMs) contained within a River Basin ManagementPlan.1Environment Agency Review of Sensitive Waters Status of Chichester Harbour 1998.2Chichester District www.conservancy.co.ukCouncil http://www.chichester.gov.uk/index.cfm?articleid=57653Chichester Harbour Conservancy May 2009 Harbour Watch Annual Report 200751

2. Policies & Actions - Water QualityChichester Harbour Conservancy maintains an Oil Pollution Management Plan, aHarbour Waste Management Plan which conforms to the requirements of theMarpol Convention Annex V, and co-ordinates monthly collections of shorelinelitter through the Harbour Watch volunteer scheme. The Conservancy has alsoinstalled a free pump-out facility at Itchenor for vessels needing to empty holdingtanks.Main issuesThe 2002 consultation workshops identified several main issues, many of whichare still relevant today. These were revised during the 2008 consultation process,and from experience of delivering the Management Plan over the past five years:► The public health risk from poor water quality, especially affecting dinghysailors.► High nutrient levels causing eutrophic conditions and presenting a hazard tonavigation.► A failure to control the main source of nutrient pollution entering the Harbourvia the Solent.► The smell and appearance of algal mats washed up along the strandline.► Incidents of poor water quality following storm discharge events from the threeWWTW and eight combined outflows.Local sailor being given an onboard recycling bagby Deputy Harbour Master Richard Craven► High concentrations of toxins affect the health of shellfish in the Harbour.► There is no statutory water quality designation with regard to the recreationaluse of the Harbour.► The impacts of the forthcoming Water Framework Directive remain uncertain.► The factors creating poor water quality cross several administrative boundariesand organisational remits, which together with high costs makes tackling waterquality issues difficult.► Development pressure in the surrounding area will place an increasing burdenon the Waste Water Treament Works and combined outflows which are alreadyoperating at capacity.52Actions to improve water quality and waste disposalRef Details Timing PolicyRef1-WQ2-WQ3-WQ4-WQ5-WQ6-WQ7-WQ8-WQIdentify and address with relevant statutory agencies all point andnon-point sources of pollution entering the Harbour, particularly wherethese have an impact on the European designations and recreationalwater users.Inform the Environment Agency of any pollution incidents arising froma land source or those that might affect the estuary with the incomingtide and seek corrective action.Work with the Solent Water Quality Association and other partners toachieve the highest water quality and achieve the aims of the WaterFramework Directive.Represent the interests of Chichester Harbour users to theEnvironment Agency in their implementation of the Water FrameworkDirective.Ensure adequate reception facilities for vessel landed waste andmaintain an MCA compliant Port Waste Management Plan.Promote and facilitate the recycling of waste through provision ofrecycling facilities and bags for sorting on-board waste.Promote the installation of holding tanks for recreational vessels andseek to provide the necessary infrastructure to pump out holdingtanks.Support and coordinate litter clearance and reporting in the AONBthrough the Harbour Watch and Beach Watch schemeswww.conservancy.co.ukMay 2009HighOngoing(review y5)HighOngoing(review y5)HighOngoing(review y5)HighOngoing(review y5)HighOngoing(review y5)HighOngoing(review y5)HighOngoing(review y5)HighOngoingWQ1;WQ2WQ1;WQ2WQ1;WQ2WQ1;WQ2WQ1;WQ2;WQ4LeadOrg(s)EACHCCHCCHCCHCPartnersCHC; SWEADefra; SWQAEAMCAWQ4 CHC LAs; marinebusinesses andsailing clubsWQ1;WQ2WQ2;WQ3CHCCHCBMF; EA; RYAHarbour WatchVolunteers; MCS

Actions to improve water quality and waste disposal (continued)2. Policies & Actions - Water QualityRef Details Timing Policy Ref LeadOrg(s)9-WQ10-WQ11-WQ12-WQ13-WQReport all incidents of fly-tipping in the AONB and where possibleidentify those responsible.Continue to supply logistic support to the Local Authorities for theiroil spill contingency arrangements in accordance with theChichester Harbour Oil Spill Contingency Plan.Monitor water quality in the harbour and make informationavailable for all harbour users, farmers and residents within theAONB.Raise public understanding and awareness of water quality, boatpollution and litter issues around the Harbour and their role inminimising these.Actively promote opportunities for waste minimisation andrecycling within Chichester Harbour AONB for residents, users andbusinesses.HighOngoing(review y5)HighOngoing(review y5)HighOngoing(review y5)HighOngoing(review y5)MediumOngoing(review y5)PartnersWQ2 LAs CHC;landowners;EAWQ1; WQ2 CHC LAs; EA; SWWQ1; WQ2;WQ3WQ1; WQ2;WQ3; WQ4WQ1; WQ2;WQ3; WQ4CHC;CDCCHCLAsLinks to other relevant plans and strategiesRoyal Yachting Association Green Blue initiativeOil Pollution Response Convention (1998)Hampshire Coastal Oil and Chemical Pollution PlanLangstone Harbour Oil Spill Contingency PlanMerchant Shipping and Fishing Vessels (Port Waste Reception Facilities)Regulations (2003)Sustainability Report (2001-2002) Southern WaterThe Environment Agency’s Vision (2001)Regional Waste Strategy (2003)West Sussex Environment Strategy (2008)The role of lead organisations and partnersEA; SWEA; FCHCHC; MarinasDue to the amount of recreational sailing, waterquality is an important issueChichester Harbour Conservancy(CHC)Environment Agency (EA)Local authorities (LAs)Southern Water (SW)Solent Water Quality Association(SWQA)Royal Yachting Association (RYA)Promoting harbour-users’ interests,monitoring, reporting, informationdissemination, awareness raisingRegulatory authority, fundingMonitoring, awareness raising, fundingWaste water treatment facilitiesInformation, research, networkingbetween organisationsAwareness raising, promoting harbourusers’interestsMarine Conservation Society (MCS) National data collection, awareness raisingHarbour Watch VolunteersMarine businessesBritish Marine Federation (BMF)DefraVolunteers supporting CHCTarget audienceRepresenting marine businessesAdvice, national policy developmentCarol NobleMaritime & Coastguard Agency (MCA) Port waste regulationsFriends of Chichester Harbour (FCH) Volunteer support, awareness raisingwww.conservancy.co.ukMay 200953

Section & ChapterPolicies10CD1 Ensure that responses to theimpacts of sea level rise have fullregard to the landscape, navigation,recreation and nature conservationinterests of Chichester HarbourAONB, together with the needs ofresidents and businesses.CD2 Provide advice on the potentialimpacts of sea level rise to residents,businesses and users of the AONB.CD3 To seek opportunities to adaptto sea level rise whilst maintainingcoastal access routes and creatingnew intertidal habitat.Part 2 Coastal Defence and SeaLevel Rise• Of the 86km of shoreline in the AONB approximately 53km are defended by manmadedefences. Of this figure, 16.38km are deemed to be in a poor condition 1,2 .• There is approximately 21.41km of natural shoreline or ancient embankment withinthe AONB 1 .• Environment Agency flood mapping indicates 1,331 hectares of low lying coastalland within the AONB may be at risk from flooding in the future 3 . This represents32% of the AONB land area.• 2041 homes within the AONB may be affected by coastal flooding in the future 3,4 .BackgroundOn the south coast, the combination of rising sea levels and falling landmass(isostatic tilt following the last Ice Age) may lead to a rise of 30-50cm in sea levelsover the next 50 years 5 . This is an average figure and during storm surges theeffect of high spring tides may be greater. Accurate measurements from the tidalgauge at Portsmouth show that since1991, sea level has risen by 10cm, anincrease of 6.6mm a year. Sea level rise is inevitably worrying in a landscapewhere ground height differences are measured in only a few metres. Evenrelatively small increases in sea level will have an impact on the coastalcommunities, habitats and the species they support, how people currently useand manage the land, and how people access and enjoy the AONB.Scenarios developed by the UK Climate Impacts Programme based on the mostup to date research show that by the 2050’s, the AONB is likely to see annualaverage temperatures between 1 o C and 3 o C warmer than present 5 . The averagesummer rainfall is likely to decrease by between 10 and 30% 5 . Likewise, we maysee an increase in winter rainfall of up to 20% 5 . Along with these overall changesin annual averages, it is likely that we will experience more weather extremes andunpredictability. Changes in soil moisture, wind speeds, storminess andcloudiness are also projected.Eroded footpath on the western shore of theChidham peninsulaThe present shape of the harbour shoreline has been fixed over recent centuriesby the construction of embankments and sea defences that reclaimed someareas from the sea and protected other areas of low-lying land. Currently 53km ofthe 86km shoreline of Chichester Harbour AONB is protected by man-madestructures 1 . Gradual sea level rise is likely to ‘squeeze’ the area of intertidal zoneagainst the existing, hard sea defence structures. This may lead to a loss of thesevaluable habitats unless it is possible to realign or remove sea defences in orderto allow the sea to inundate the low-lying land and establish new mudflat andsaltmarsh habitats as sea levels rise. The strategic framework is provided throughthe North Solent Shoreline Management Plan (SMP), which is a non-statutorydocument providing guidance to assist coastal defence decision making for adefined length of coast over the next 100 years. The SMP aims to identifysustainable coastal defence options based upon economic criteria, whilst havingan overview of both the natural environment and the human and builtenvironment. This feeds down to the next tier of strategies including thePortchester to Emsworth Coastal Defence Strategy (CDS), North Hayling CDS,Selsmore and Mengham Sectoral Strategy and Eastoke Sectoral Strategy.Undoubtedly, the threat and implications of sea level rise around the coastline ofChichester Harbour AONB will bring greater calls from local residents andbusiness owners for increased and improved coastal defences to protect propertyand land 6 . However, central government funding is unlikely to be forthcoming inthe majority of cases. Any coastal engineering works that are undertaken willhave an impact on the ability of internationally protected habitats to adapt to the541Chichester Harbour Conservancy GIS data2Chichester Harbour Shoreline Study Part 1-4 (1994). John Burgess (MIWEM)3Environment Agency Flood Map data 2001.4 Based on Ordnance www.conservancy.co.ukSurvey Address Point data 20005Headline Indicators on May the 2009 Impact of Climate Change on South East Protected Landscapes (2006). ADAS.6Chichester Harbour Conservancy Sea Defence Guidelines. www.conservancy.co.uk/news/publications.asp

2. Policies & Actions - Coastal Defencechanges arising from sea level rise, and in some cases they may be lost if othersuitable locations cannot be found for their development. Difficult decisions lieahead allocating limited funding, and in striking a balance between human andenvironmental needs. An issue of special interest to local residents and boatowners in the AONB is the continued erosion of East Head. This is a complexproblem as any major defence works would undermine the area’s character andthe reasons for its nature conservation designations. Proposals for the medium tolong-term management of East Head are contained within the Pagham to EastHead Coastal Defence Strategy. The Strategy proposes a scheme of AdaptiveManagement that seeks to respond to change and to preserve the social,economic, environmental and amenity value of East Head for the 100 year life ofthe Strategy. The emphasis will not necessarily be on trying to lock the featureinto its present size, shape and orientation.Most of the AONB’s coastal footpath network is located along existing seadefences, embankments or the foreshore itself. Should significant changes occurthen opportunities should be sought to relocate footpaths and other recreationalresources inland, ensuring that the value of the resource or the special qualitiesof the AONB are not lessened in the process. Achieving this will be expensive.Sea level rise will require partners to work together to develop suitable solutions,to manage the consequential changes, and seek to identify habitat creationopportunities for the most threatened habitats, key landscape features andrecreational resources of the AONB.Main issues identified at the Consultation WorkshopThe 2002 consultation workshops identified several main issues, many of whichare still relevant today. These were revised during the 2008 consultation process,and from experience of delivering the Management Plan over the past five years:► The preservation of East Head has to date been the main issue of concern tothe harbour community.► The absence of a Coastal Defence Strategy for the eastern side of the harbourfrom Emsworth to West Wittering is a significant weakness.► The uncertainty of the impact of sea level rise in terms of social, economic andthe natural environment.► The potential loss of important habitats, landscape features and recreationalresources.► The lack of knowledge of management options and their cost implications.Walkers being ‘ferried’ to the jetty during aparticularly high tide► The lack of public awareness of the global issues, the public perception of thedesirability to halt natural change and confusion over the roles of the variousGovernment agencies.► The complex decision-making process involving many organisations.► The creation of unsightly sea defences through maintenance with unsuitablematerials.► The pressure for development within flood risk areas.www.conservancy.co.ukMay 200955

2. Policies & Actions - Coastal DefenceActions to address sea level rise and coastal defenceRef Details Timing PolicyRef1-CD2-CD3-CD4-CD5-CD6-CD7-CD8-CDSupport and commission research on the impacts of climatechange and sea level rise in the AONB, to help identifyopportunities for flexible responses to rising sea levels.Inform Local Authorities where PPG25 is relevant in areas at riskfrom flooding and coastal erosion.In partnership with relevant authorities, update and promote theConservancy’s Sea Defence Guidelines.Develop partnership working and information sharing with relevantauthorities responsible for flood protection and coastal defence.Develop a strategy for managing those coastal footpaths at riskfrom rising sea levels and failing sea defences.Work in partnership with landowners to identify potential sites formanaged realignment and habitat creation schemes.Through the East Head Coastal Issues Advisory Group, monitorthe impact of erosion at East Head and respond to change inaccordance with the Pagham to East Head Coastal DefenceStrategy.Provide advice and information to AONB businesses, users andresidents on the impacts of relative sea level rise and methods ofadapting to the changes.HighOngoing(review y5)HighOngoing(review y5)HighOngoing(review y5)HighOngoing(review y5)HighOngoing(review y5)HighOngoing(review y5)HighOngoing(review y5)MediumOngoing(review y5)9-CD Participate in and support the work of SCOPAC. MediumOngoing(review y5)10-CD11-CDEngage with and influence the Shoreline Management PlanProcess and development of Coastal Defence Strategies.Produce a Coastal Defence Strategy for the Emsworth to WestWittering frontages.MediumOngoing(review y5)MediumOngoing(review y5)CD1;CD2LeadOrg(s)CHCCD1 CHC LAsCD1;CD2CD1CD1;CD3CD1;CD3CD1;CD2CD1;CD2CHCCHC;LAs; EACHC;LAsCHCCHC;EA,CDCCHC;EA; LAsPartnersEA; Defra; LAs;NEEA; NE; LAsNE; DefraLandownersLandowners; CHTrust; EALAs; NT; NE;WWE; WestWittering ParishCouncil; fundersParish councilsCD1 CHC SCOPACCD1;CD3CD1;CD3CHCEA;CDCCHC;stakeholdersExposed rock berm at East Head56www.conservancy.co.ukMay 2009

2. Policies & Actions - Coastal DefenceLinks to other relevant plans and strategiesBorough Policy Statement on Flood and Coastal Defence (2001, amended 2005)Havant Borough CouncilPagham to East Head Coastal Defence Strategy (2008)North Solent Shoreline Management Plan (in production)Havant Borough Local Development Framework (in production)Chichester District Local Development Framework (in production)Solent European Marine Site (SEMS) Management Scheme (2002), SEMSManagement Group.West Sussex Environment Strategy (2008)The Role of Lead Organisations and PartnersA particularly high tide at Langstone,December 2006Chichester Harbour Conservancy(CHC)Environment Agency (EA)Local Authorities (LAs)Co-ordination, support, informationFlood defence, information, fundingPlanning (local planning authorities),coastal defence, information, fundingStanding Conference on Problems Partnership working, information, support,Associated with the Coastline regional strategies(SCOPAC)Dredged material from the harbourentrance is ‘rainbowed’ onto the beachat HaylingDefraNatural England (NE)LandownersParish CouncilsNational Trust (NT)Chichester Harbour Trust(CH Trust)National policyNational policy, statutory authority, advice,fundingOwners of land within the AONBRepresenting local communities (includesResidents’ Associations)East Head landownerCharitable Trust seeking to acquire landwithin the AONBHavant Borough Councilwww.conservancy.co.ukMay 200957

Section & ChapterPart 2Policies11EW1 To maintain ChichesterHarbour as an ideal and peacefulestuary for the enjoyment of sailingand boating.EW2 To minimise the potential forconflict between different forms ofwater based recreation.EW3 To minimise the potential forconflict between environmental andboating interests.EW4 To support and improve theexisting boating infrastructure andamenity value of the Harbour.Enjoying ChichesterHarbour on the Water• In 2007 there were 8,660 vessels over 3 metres in length, and 2,454 under 3 metresheld on record at the Harbour Office 1 .• Chichester Harbour Federation membership consists of 16 RYA affiliated clubs, 13boatyards and marinas, two sailing schools, and four other harbour organisations.• It is estimated that 25,000 people use the Harbour for water-related activities eachyear 1 .BackgroundChichester Harbour is one of the most unspoilt and peaceful estuaries on theSouth Coast; over the last 50 years its shallow, sheltered yet tidal waters andbeautiful surroundings have attracted increasing numbers of leisure craft.Whether it is to race at one of the 16 Harbour sailing clubs, to cruise its charminginlets and channels, to berth a cruiser in one of the seven marinas or simply tomess about in boats, the Harbour is home to many and diverse boating interests.Chichester Harbour Conservancy has recognised the fragile balance that existsbetween these interests and the danger to all of them if the Harbour becomes tooovercrowded. Since its formation in 1971 the Conservancy has been of the viewthat the Harbour can, at peak times, become dangerously congested andovercrowded. It has therefore adopted policies that seek to control growth in thenumber of boats on the Harbour, to reduce conflict between different interestgroups on the water and to improve the Harbour and boating infrastructure.More than 8,500 boats over 3m regularlyuse Chichester HarbourThe Conservancy seeks to achieve these aims in three ways. Firstly, by using aprescriptive moorings policy to control the number of vessels in the Harbour; keepareas of the Harbour clear for sailing; and support sailing clubs and boatyards.Secondly, promoting the peaceful enjoyment of the Harbour by encouragingcourtesy and good behaviour, rather than relying on rules and regulations tocontrol vessels. Finally, by improving the yachting infrastructure whilst maintainingthe environmental qualities of the Harbour.Main issuesThe 2002 consultation workshops identified several main issues, many of whichare still relevant today. These were revised during the 2008 consultation process,and from experience of delivering the Management Plan over the past five years:► Congestion and overcrowding on the water, particularly at weekends in thesummer.► Conflict between different types of harbour user and lack of understanding andconsideration of the needs of others.► Lack of maritime awareness, knowledge and experience.► Balancing the demand for more and improved boating facilities withenvironmental considerations.581Chichester Harbour www.conservancy.co.ukConservancy dataMay 2009

2. Policies & Actions - Enjoying WaterActions to manage water-based recreational activitiesRef Details Timing PolicyRef1-EW2-EW3-EW4-EW5-EW6-EW7-EW8-EW9-EW10-EW11-EWTo discourage any new developments or initiatives that willincrease the number of vessels using the Harbour at peak times.To develop, with others, Codes of Conduct and other mechanismsto avoid conflicting activity in the Harbour.To discourage the use of Personal Watercraft (jet-skis) in theHarbour as they cannot be used to their full potential within thespeed limit and because their operation is an intrusion into thequiet enjoyment of other forms of recreation and a disturbance towildlife.To maintain the existing prohibition on water skiing, kite surfing andthe like.To manage the number, type and location of moorings in theHarbour in order to exercise a level of control on the total numberof vessels in the harbour and to retain the existing clear areas ofwater in the Harbour. The current moratorium on additionalmoorings will be maintained.To prevent an overall increase in the size of vessels by change ofmooring class or relaxation of restrictions in length. If proposals toincrease the size of vessels that can be accommodated on amooring are acceptable, the Conservancy will seek to balance thisby the wasting, or the reduction in class, of other moorings.To continue the policy of charges for moorings being set at a levelwhich recovers the cost of the operation and provides for a modestsurplus which is applied to maritime purposes.To make available a range of moorings and sites whose chargesfavour smaller vessels and tidal sites.To maintain and enforce the 8 knot speed limit and byelawsrelating to navigating with care and caution.To discourage, through the planning process, an increase in thenumber of marina berths unless compensated by wasting existingmoorings.To object to new developments that may increase the number ofvessels using the harbour e.g. new launching sites and drystacking facilities.HighOngoing(review y5)HighOngoing(review y5)HighOngoing(review y5)HighOngoing(review y5)HighOngoing(review y5)HighOngoing(review y5)HighOngoing(review y5)HighOngoing(review y5)HighOngoing(review y5)HighOngoing(review y5)HighOngoing(review y5)12-EW To encourage the development of sail and small boat training. MediumOngoing(review y5)13-EW14-EW15-EWTo develop a Conservancy sponsored programme to educate thedifferent Harbour user groups (dinghy racing, cruising,powerboats), on the needs of others and to give guidance onbehaviour and good practice.To use existing forms of communication (website, Harbour News,sailing clubs) and develop new ways to encourage courtesy andgood behaviour among mariners rather than rely on rules andregulations to control navigation.To provide improved facilities for yachtsmen which do notcontribute to congestion and are sympathetic to the environment ofthe Harbour.MediumOngoing(review y5)MediumOngoing(review y5)MediumOngoing(review y5)EW1;EW2;EW3EW1;EW2;EW3EW1;EW2;EW3EW1;EW2;EW3EW1;EW2;EW3EW1;EW3EW1;EW4EW2;EW3EW1;EW2;EW3EW1;EW3EW1;EW3EW1;EW2EW1;EW2;EW3EW1;EW2;EW3EW3;EW4LeadOrg(s)CHC; LAsCHC; CHFed; SCCHCCHCCHCCHCCHCCHCCHCCHCCHCSC; sailingschools;educationalgroupsCHCCHCCHC; SC;marinas;boatyardsPartnersSC; marinas;boatyardsLocal PlanningAuthoritiesLocal PlanningAuthoritiesCHC; LAsSC; marinas;mooring & berthholders; BMF,RYA, RNLICH Fed; SC;mooring & berthholderswww.conservancy.co.ukMay 200959

2. Policies & Actions - Enjoying WaterActions to manage water-based recreational activities (continued)Ref Details Timing PolicyRef16-EW17-EW18-EW19-EW20-EW21-EW22-EW23-EWTo give advice to boatyards, sailing clubs and marinas on theimplementation of the Habitats Regulations when they areproposing to undertake works in the Harbour.To monitor vessel movements regularly to determine levels ofcongestion and to seek to reduce this at peak times.To promote sustainable boating through the development offacilities that reduce pollution of the marine environment.To claw back deep water mooring sites in key positions, when thelicensee seeks to transfer or surrender them, and to exercise thispolicy with a presumption in favour, firstly, of the Conservancy, andsecondly, of commercial boatyards.To maintain a presumption in favour of transferring availablemooring sites for tidal moorings to sailing clubs if they are adjacentto existing sailing club moorings.To seek agreements with the owners of the Harbour bed so thatmoorings can be managed as Conservancy controlled sites.To develop ways of educating young, new and novice sailors onsafe, responsible boating.To support and promote the RYA Green Blue initiative toencourage environmental best practiceMediumOngoing(review y5)MediumYear 1MediumOngoing(review y5)MediumOngoing(review y5)MediumOngoing(review y5)MediumOngoing(review y5)MediumOngoing(review y5)MediumOngoing(review y5)EW3;EW4EW1;EW2;EW3EW1;EW3EW1;EW4EW1;EW4LeadOrg(s)CHCCHCCHC; SC;boatyards;marinas;CHCCHCPartnersSC; boatyards;marinasEW4 CHC Crown Estate;Manor of BoshamEW1;EW2EW1;EW3CHCCH Fed, SCCHC; RYA CH Fed, SCLinks to other relevant plans and strategiesWest Sussex Structure Plan (2001-2016)Kayaks share the harbour with much bigger vesselsHampshire County Structure Plan (1996-2011)Chichester District Local Development Framework (in process)Havant Borough Local Development Framework (in process)West Sussex County Council Cultural Strategy (2003-08)Hampshire County Council Cultural Strategy (in consultation)Game Plan: A Strategy for Delivering the Government’s Sport and Physical ActivityObjectives (2002) Government Strategy UnitRoyal Yachting Association - Sea Sense CampaignA Single Scheme of Management (2002) Solent European Marine Site ManagementGroupBoating for Life: RYA Planning and Environmental Strategy for Sustainable Boating(2004-09)David ByneThe Green Blue – joint RYA and BMF initiative to promote sustainable boating60www.conservancy.co.ukMay 2009

2. Policies & Actions - Enjoying WaterThe role of lead organisations and partnersChichester Harbour Conservancy(CHC)Chichester Harbour Federation(CH Fed)Sailing Clubs and ActivityCentres (SC)Boatyards and marinasRoyal Yachting Association (RYA)RNLILocal Planning AuthoritiesLocal Authorities (LAs)Crown EstateManor of BoshamBritish Marine Federation (BMF)Harbour Authority, co-ordination,infrastructure provision, information tousers, mooring providerRepresentative voice of boat owners,clubs and businesses, Fed WeekorganiserOrganisers of boating activities andtrainingProvision of facilities, berths andmooringsRepresents boating interests at nationallevelMaritime emergency service and safetyadviceDevelopment controlFunding and supportOwner of parts of the harbour bedOwner of parts of the harbour bedRepresenting marine industryHundreds of dinghies take part in the annualChichester Harbour Federation Week regattawww.conservancy.co.ukMay 200961

Section & ChapterPolicies12EL1 To manage the visitorinfrastructure, visitor numbers andactivities within Chichester HarbourAONB for minimal impact on itslandscape and nature conservationstatus.EL2 To promote opportunities forvisitors to access the AONBsustainably through reduced car useand improved public transport andcycling links.EL3 To seek ways of providingrecreational opportunities for peoplewith restricted mobility and sociallyexcluded groups.EL4 To minimise potential conflictbetween recreational users.EL5 To ensure that public rights ofway, permissive paths andwheelchair routes are maintained tothe highest standard and areavailable in the long term.Thousands of walkers enjoy the harbourfootpaths each yearPart 2 Enjoying ChichesterHarbour from the Land• There are 92.47km of public rights of way within the AONB, with 46.15km of pathsrunning along the coast and shoreline 1 . These are entirely made up of publicfootpaths 1 .• 640,000 visitors used the three car parks in Itchenor, Bosham and East Head in 2001 2 .• The Salterns Way, an 18km route for cyclists, opened in May 2006 linking Chichesterwith West Wittering.BackgroundChichester Harbour AONB has approximately 1.5 million people visiting eachyear; some are local (that is, living within 10 miles) and others could be classedas tourists (that is staying in the area but coming to visit the AONB). Walking,cycling, wildfowling, photography, drawing and painting and birdwatching are justsome of the interests of these visitors - many just sit and enjoy the view. The2007/8 Visitor Survey showed that 55% of those questioned had heard aboutChichester Harbour AONB by word of mouth. Of the 10% of people for whom thiswas their first visit, 95% said they would come back 3 .There are strong indications that the number of people coming to ChichesterHarbour AONB will continue to increase. Continuing development within andadjacent to the AONB is likely to lead to increased population pressure. Visitorimpact needs to be monitored and addressed to minimise the effect on the veryresource people come to enjoy. The Harbour’s designated habitats and speciesare vulnerable to disturbance, and the AONB’s infrastructure is prone tocongestion at times. In addition, the Coastal Access proposals within the MarineBill are likely to have implications for managing access to the Harbour‘s shoreline.At present, public transport options within the AONB are limited. A train serviceruns from Havant to Chichester, and bus services run along the A259 to Bosham,Thorney Island and West Wittering, although there is no service that takes peopleinto and around the AONB. Travelling to different parts of the AONB is often mostdirect by boat, but the tides and channel structure restrict a regular water taxiservice covering the whole Harbour. The 2007/08 Visitor Survey showed that ofthe 500 people questioned, 61% had arrived by car with 28% arriving on foot, 5%travelling by bicycle and 3% by public transport (1% had arrived by boat) 3 . Thisrepresents a slight improvement from the 2002/03 survey and indicates thatimproved public transport links and cycle routes may encourage people to seekalternative modes of transport to and within the AONB. However, there will alwaysbe a number of visitors, in particular the boating public, who will continue to visitthe area by car because of the need to transport equipment.There has traditionally been little promotion of Chichester Harbour AONB as arecreational resource, mainly because of the uncertainty of the amount of visitorsit is able to support without detracting from and damaging its peacefulness,tranquillity and special qualities. The Conservancy approach focuses on providingvisitors and users with information on how to enjoy the area sustainably,respecting its special qualities, and promoting the most sustainable forms ofactivities and access. Links should be made with Tourism South East to seekopportunities for green or sustainable tourism initiatives (see Section 7, Runninga Business in Chichester Harbour AONB).The challenge for the future is to encourage people to leave their cars at home,and visit the area through a network of cycle routes, lockable cycle posts,footpaths and public transport and to offer access opportunities for people withrestricted mobility. Rights of Way Improvement Plans (ROWIPs) and CountrysideAccess Plans (Solent CAP) produced by Highway Authorities in conjunction withLocal Access Forums (LAFs) will adopt a strategic partnership approach towardsRights of Way management. They are likely to focus on frequently used routes621Chichester Harbour Conservancy GIS data2www.conservancy.co.ukValuing Chichester Harbour (2001) Chichester Harbour Conservancy3May 2009Survey of Land-based Recreation 2007/08. Chichester Harbour Conservancy

2. Policies & Actions - Enjoying from Landand where access demands are currently not being met, for example circularroutes and routes adjacent to villages and towns. Long distance routes, such asthe Lipchis Way, link the AONB to wider Rights of Way networks. RoWIPs will bean integral part of the Local Transport Plans and are likely to be their principalsource of funding to implement improved access, including cycle tracks androutes for people with restricted mobility. These initiatives will be key componentsin meeting future access challenges.The impact of the rising sea level is already being felt on coastal footpathsparticularly where routes run along sea walls protected by failing sea defences.Long term solutions are needed to ensure that access is maintained into thefuture.Main issues identified at the Consultation WorkshopThe 2002 consultation workshops identified several main issues, many of whichare still relevant today. These were revised during the 2008 consultation process,and from experience of delivering the Management Plan over the past five years:► The potential conflict of interests between different recreational users.► The potential conflict of interests between recreational users and conservation.► The potential loss of tranquillity through over use and lack of full understandingof the carrying capacity for visitors within the AONB.► The erosion and potential loss of the shoreline footpath, requiring alternativeroutes to be found with limited funding.► The need to raise awareness of the special qualities of Chichester HarbourAONB and wise use of the area.► Increased population pressure arising from development within and adjacent tothe AONB.The Salterns Way hosts an annualcharity cycle ride► There is scope to improve public and sustainable transport options both to andwithin the AONB, together with providing increased opportunities for safe cyclingto and within the AONB.► The current lack of use of the Chichester Canal and limited use of the water foraccess and transport.► The potential impacts of the Coastal Access proposals within the Marine Bill.► There are no bridleways within the AONB and opportunities for providingaccess to horse-riders is limited in an already pressurised Rights of Way network.► The CRoW Act 2000 identifies registered common land in the AONB as openaccess; raising concerns over disturbance of intertidal habitats and public healthand safety.www.conservancy.co.ukMay 200963

2. Policies & Actions - Enjoying from LandActions to manage land-based recreational activitiesRef Details Timing PolicyRefLeadOrg(s)Partners1-EL2-EL3-ELManage public car parks within the AONB and where possibledisplay interpretation material and information on sustainabletransport links.Provide a high quality network of footpaths, cycle routes andwheelchair paths through the Rights of Way Improvement Plansand other initiatives.Maintain and promote the Salterns Way cycle route and exploreopportunities for additional cycle paths.HighOngoing(review y5)HighOngoing(review y5)HighOngoing(review y5)EL1; EL2; CHC; LAsEL1; EL2;EL3; EL4;EL5EL2; EL4;EL5LAs; CHCCHCLAF; PC;SUSTRANS;access groups;landownersLandowners; LAs;Sustrans; accessgroups; LAF; NE4-EL5-EL6-EL7-EL8-EL9-EL10-ELSupport and promote the use of the Itchenor Ferry to link landbasedaccess points.Secure the long term future of the coastal footpaths,investigating managed realignment and permissive routeoptions where possible.Work in partnership with landowners to provide long termfootpaths, wheelchair paths and cycle routes which avoid fragileshoreline routes and help reduce conflict of use.Improve access for people with limited mobility by providingsuitable footpaths, associated signage and access gates.Influence the implementation of the Coastal Access proposalsarising from the Marine Bill to ensure appropriate access withinthe AONB.Seek to understand the carrying capacity of the AONB andevaluate the impact of land-based recreational use on thedesignated site.Monitor land-based visitor numbers and activities withinChichester Harbour AONB through 5-yearly visitor surveys.HighOngoing(review y5)HighOngoing(review y5)HighOngoing(review y5)HighOngoing(review y5)HighOngoingHighOngoingMediumYear 3EL1; EL2 CHC Ferry operatorEL1; EL2;EL5EL1; EL2;EL3; EL4;EL5CHCCHCLAs; landownersLandowners; LAs;LAF; accessgroupsEL3 CHC Landowners; LAs;Disabledrepresentativegroups; access;groups; LAFEL1 CHC; NE,LAsEL1 CHC; NE LAsEL1; EL4CHC11-ELProvide information on public and sustainable transport optionsto recreational users.HighOngoing(review y5)EL1; EL2;EL3; EL4;EL5CHCNE; FCH; accessgroups12-EL13-ELDiscourage the unlawful use of public footpaths by cycliststhrough appropriate signage, structures and awareness raising.Support the use of Chichester Canal to link Chichester to theAONB through the Chichester Canal Trust.MediumOngoing(review y5)MediumOngoing(review y5)EL4 CHC LAsEL2; EL3;EL5ChichesterCanalSocietyLAs; CHC14-ELSupport ‘park and ride’ facilities, where this does not increasecar use within the AONB.MediumOngoing(review y5)EL1; EL2 LAs CHC15-ELContinue to support the AONB-wide Harbour Watch volunteerscheme to monitor and report on footpath condition.MediumOngoing(review y5)EL5 CHC Harbour Watchvolunteers64www.conservancy.co.ukMay 2009

2. Policies & Actions - Enjoying from LandLinks to other relevant plans and strategiesWest Sussex Structure Plan (2001-2016)Hampshire County Structure Plan (1996-2011)Chichester District Local Plan (1999) / LDF Core StrategyHavant Borough District-Wide Local Plan (1996-2011) / LDF Core StrategyWest Sussex Cultural Strategy (2003-08)West Sussex Local Transport Plan (2006-16)Hampshire County Council Cultural Strategy (to be published)Hampshire Local Transport Plan (2006-2011)Hampshire County Council’s Strategic Direction for the Visitor Economy (2007-2012)SEERA Regional Transport Strategy (2003)Strategies and plans arising from the implementation of the Disability Discrimination Act(2005)Wheelchairs paths (above) provide access tosome of the finest viewpoints for people withlimited mobility. Cycle posts (below) encouragepeople to leave their car at home when visitingthe AONB. The harbour attracts photographerskeen to capture the view (bottom)West Sussex County Council Rights of Way Improvement PlanCountryside Access Plan for HampshireSolent Countryside Access PlanDraft Marine Bill and Coastal Access BillThe role of lead organisations and partnersChichester Harbour Conservancy(CHC)Local Authorities (LAs)Parish Councils (PC)Local Access Forum (LAF)Sport EnglandSUSTRANSChichester Canal SocietyDisabled representative groupsLandownersFerry operatorAccess groupsNatural England (NE)Friends of Chichester Harbour(FCH)Harbour Watch VolunteersInformation dissemination, guidance, pathmaintenance, permissive accessnegotiatorRights of Way Authorities, maintenance,informationLandowners, rights of way maintenanceRepresentatives of organisations advisingon improvements to public accessPromotion of physical activity and sportsPromotion of cyclingInvolved in the restoration and use ofChichester CanalUsers, information, guidanceOwners of land for access improvementsKey link in footpath networkPromoting access (includes The Ramblersand British Horse Society)Advice, guidance and fundingCharity providing information to harbourusersVolunteers supporting CHCSheila Bleasbywww.conservancy.co.ukMay 200965

Section & ChapterPart 2 Activities and Information13PoliciesAI1 To implement and promote adiverse year-round activitiesprogramme to enable people tounderstand and value the specialqualities of Chichester HarbourAONB and to foster a sense ofguardianship.AI2 To provide information in avariety of formats to enable peopleto understand and value the AONBand to raise awareness of the role ofthe Conservancy and partners in itsmanagement.AI3 To ensure that the opportunity todevelop knowledge andunderstanding of Chichester HarbourAONB is widely available.Sailing trips on the restored oyster boat ‘Terror’are popular throughout the summer months• Between 2004 and 2007 the Conservancy’s Activities Programme included anaverage of 65 events with 1,940 attendees each year 1 .• There are 37 interpretation boards located at key points throughout the AONB.• Chichester Harbour Conservancy’s website attracts nearly 14,000 visits each month.91% of users find the website easy to use and 87% found the information theyneeded 2 .BackgroundThe results of the 2007/08 Visitor Survey indicated that just over half (54%) of the500 people questioned were aware of Chichester Harbour’s AONB designationand 42% were aware of the Conservancy’s management role, and the workcarried out by its partners within the AONB 3 . This number represents both visitorsand residents.It is therefore important that all visitors, users and residents of ChichesterHarbour AONB have the opportunity to learn about the fragility and speciallandscape and nature conservation qualities, to help foster greater awarenessand appreciation of the AONB. This will become even more important as visitornumbers increase and the pressure on the AONB becomes greater. People whovisit or use Chichester Harbour AONB are targeted through a year-roundactivities and information programme run by Chichester Harbour Conservancy.The programme includes guided walks, themed events such as wildlife, historyand art-based activities, with talks and family-oriented activities. Many peoplewith a wide range of interests participate in the activities on offer, and theprogramme provides a direct opportunity to promote the work of the Conservancyand its partners and the special landscape and nature conservation qualities ofthe AONB. Partner organisations, including Hampshire and West Sussex CountyCouncils, the RSPB and the National Trust also run events and activities withinthe AONB.A series of information and interpretation boards located on footpaths and otherkey points of access throughout the AONB provides site-specific information andconservation messages. The Conservancy’s website has become a key way ofcommunicating with the public and online facilities now include an eNewsletterand Forum. A range of publications is available to provide information for peopleliving in, visiting or using the AONB.The local media are briefed on AONB events and news through regular PressReleases and contributing articles are written for local newsletters andnewspapers to raise awareness of the AONB. Harbour-users can subscribe to theeNewsletter to receive regular ‘Local Notice to Mariners’ updates and otherinformation on news, events and activities in the AONB.Main IssuesThe 2002 consultation workshops identified several main issues, many of whichare still relevant today. These were revised during the 2008 consultation process,and from experience of delivering the Management Plan over the past five years:► A lack of knowledge and awareness of Chichester Harbour AONB’s naturalenvironment, historic setting, multiple designations, national and internationalsetting, management structure and the complexities involved in managing a multiusearea.► Visitors and users lack the knowledge of who represents their particularinterest in the management of the AONB.► Visitors and users need to understand the impact their visit may have on thenatural environment and the enjoyment of other users.66► A lack of awareness of all the opportunities that Chichester Harbour AONB hasto offer.1www.conservancy.co.ukBased on Chichester Harbour Conservancy annual report data2May 2009Chichester Harbour Conservancy website statistics 20083Survey of Land-based Recreation 2007/08. Chichester Harbour Conservancy

2. Policies & Actions - Activities & InfoActions to provide Information and Activities to AllRef Details Timing PolicyRefLeadOrg(s)Partners1-AI2-AI3-AI4-AI5-AIProvide a range of interpretive material throughout the AONB toinclude publications, signage and interpretation boards.Develop and maintain the Conservancy’s website to providecomprehensive and up to date information on the AONB.Co-ordinate a programme of events, talks and activities withinthe AONB for people of all ages and abilities.Make research and information gathered on the managementof the AONB available to the public via the website, publicationsand talks.Maintain an up to date information service throughe-Newsletters, website updates and press releases.HighOngoing(review y5)HighOngoing(review y5)HighOngoing(reviewannually)HighOngoing(review y5)HighOngoing(review y5)AI2; AI3 CHC NEAI2; AI3CHCAI1, AI3 CHC Sailing clubs;LAs; localcommunitygroupsAI1; AI2;AI3AI1; AI2;AI3CHCCHC6-AIDevelop initiatives and projects to involve local conservationand amenity groups in the improved understanding andmanagement of the AONB.HighOngoing(review y5)AI1; AI2;AI3CHCFCH; CCV;CHWA; Volunteerconservationgroups7-AIMaintain the Conservancy’s activities and interpretation teamand develop further links with local partners.HighOngoing(review y5)AI1; AI2;AI3CHCEducationalestablishments;NE8-AI9-AI10-AI11-AIUse the Conservancy’s Communications Strategy as a basis forall information dissemination.Provide information of the human impact on the AONB’s naturalenvironment and ways to mitigate this to influence behaviouralchange.Provide information on the partnership organisations’ roles inmanaging Chichester Harbour AONB.Provide information to individual enquiries relating to the AONBand its management.HighOngoing(review y5)MediumOngoing(review y5)MediumOngoing(review y5)MediumOngoing(review y5)AI1; AI2;AI3CHCAI2; AI3 CHC LAsAI1; AI2;AI3AI1; AI2;AI3CHCCHCNE; LAs12-AIMonitor the success of the activities programme throughfeedback from individual users and the media.MediumOngoing(review y5)AI1; AI2;AI3CHC13-AIKeep harbour-users informed of current navigation and weatherconditions both electronically and through publications.MediumOngoing(review y5)AI3CHC14-AIMonitor the success of the published information throughfeedback from individual users, website statistics and themedia.MediumOngoing(review y5)AI1; AI2;AI3CHC15-AIEngage with Tourism South East and local accommodationproviders to provide a platform for meeting and sharinginformation on sustainable activities within the AONB.MediumOngoing(review y5)AI1; AI2;AI3CHCTSE, local touristoffices,accommodationproviderswww.conservancy.co.ukMay 200967

2. Policies & Actions - Activities & InfoLinks to other relevant plans and strategiesHampshire County Council Cultural Strategy (to be published)Game Plan - A Strategy for Delivering Government’s Sport and Physical ActivityObjectives (2002) Government Strategy UnitThe role of lead organisations and partnersGuided walks are used to introducepeople to the AONB and learn moreabout its importanceChichester Harbour Conservancy(CHC)Local Authorities (LAs)Educational establishmentsFriends of Chichester HarbourNature conservation organisationsSailing clubsTourism South East (TSE)Natural England (NE)Local community groupsCo-ordination, support, informationpromotion, organises and runs activitiesInformation, fundingTo provide expertise and facilities foreducational opportunities within the AONBSupport work, funding and informingFor example, National Trust, RSPB,Friends of Chichester Harbour (FCH);Chichester Wildfowl Association (CHWA);Chichester Conservation Volunteers (CCV)Harbour usersRegional tourism strategies, businessplans, research and marketingGuidance, information, fundingDissemination to local peopleFamilies get ready to have a go atstream dipping at Fishbourne Meadows68www.conservancy.co.ukMay 2009

2. Policies & Actions - EducationPart 214 Education• Between 2004 and 2007 the Conservancy’s education service delivered an averagePoliciesSC1 To develop and promote aneducational programme for schoolgroups of all ages and abilities whichmeets the requirements of theNational Curriculum and engendersa sense of guardianship of theAONB.SC2 To provide and promoteeducational opportunities which aresocially inclusive and supportchildren who are disadvantaged orwho have special educational needs.A school group visit Chichester Marina to studythe impact of man on the natural environmentof 6,880 student half-day sessions each year 1 .• 96 field trips or visits were run for classes with children from socially deprived areasor who have special educational needs during 2006/07 1 .• The education programme and facilities continue to be used by a wide range ofeducational establishments and interest groups within and outside the AONB.• The ‘Get Afloat!’ scheme enables local organisations each year to sponsor visits tothe harbour for disadvantaged childrenBackgroundThe variety of habitats and its coastal location make Chichester Harbour AONBan ideal outdoor classroom. The AONB enjoys a well-structured formal educationprogramme open to students of all ages, devised and implemented by ChichesterHarbour Conservancy working in close co-operation with the Local Authorityeducation departments. This programme covers the complete range ofeducational establishments from primary to adult within the AONB and beyond,and includes special education as well as interest groups. Currently over 7000pupil sessions are run each year. This figure includes Field Trips on the shorelineand afloat. Many of these visits involve the use of the Conservancy’s classroomat Dell Quay. The Harbour Conservancy Education Service also maintains athriving Outreach Programme in Hampshire and West Sussex.Recent improvements include the development of a comprehensive onlineLearning Zone (www.conservancy.co.uk/learn) and the introduction of support forstudents who are disadvantaged or who have special needs in a programme ofeducational visits designed to improve their understanding of the AONB and itsspecial qualities.Progress is also being made to establish closer links between the harboureducation service and the local farming community, sustainable schools andhealthy eating programmes, and community services on the western side of theharbour, including Havant Arts Centre.The current formal education programme is being further developed in the contextof the AONB Management Plan and in relation to the demands of the NationalCurriculum. This implies curriculum-related activity designed to bring a betterunderstanding of the AONB. This work occurs in the context of the introduction ofthe Outdoor Learning Manifesto which strengthens the case at national level, foroutdoor learning in the natural environment and will result in increasing structureto underpin the work of the Chichester Harbour Education Service.The Education Service continues to work closely with the West Sussex andHampshire Environmental Education Groups, the Hampshire Outdoor Forum and‘Trailblazer’ scheme and is represented nationally by the National Association ofField Studies Officers.1Chichester Harbour Conservancy Education Service annual report datawww.conservancy.co.ukMay 200969

2. Policies & Actions - EducationMain IssuesThe 2002 consultation workshops identified several main issues, many of whichare still relevant today. These were revised during the 2008 consultation process,and from experience of delivering the Management Plan over the past five years:► Schools have limited resources for educational visits, particularly relating totransport.► There is a perceived risk associated with outdoor activities, particularly inwinter.► A lack of opportunities for schools to get onto the water has concentratedactivity on land-based issues.► There is insufficient specific information available for schools and collegesrelating to the AONB.Actions to Provide Educational Opportunities to Schools and CollegesRef Details Timing PolicyRefLeadOrg(s)Partners1-SC2-SC3-SC4-SCDeliver a curriculum-linked education service whichprovides staff and resources for both school visits andoutreach programmes.Work with partners to develop initiatives which provideeducational opportunities for children who are sociallydisadvantaged or who have special educational needs.Generate new creative resources and methods ofoutreach.Support educational establishments and facilities withinthe AONB.HighOngoing(review y5)HighOngoing(review y5)HighOngoing(review y5)HighOngoing(review y5)5-SC Maintain a broad-based teaching resource. HighOngoing(review y5)6-SC7-SC8-SC9-SC10-SCMonitor the formal education programme throughfeedback and consultation as a basis for furtherdevelopment.Use the research, surveying and monitoring datagathered in the AONB as an education resource.Work with the AONB partnership, the EducationAuthorities, Schools, Colleges, Adult Education Centresand Activity Centres to promote the value ofenvironmental education and develop new opportunitiesand resources.Develop relationships with landowners within the AONBto provide learning opportunities within the farmedlandscape.Use and promote the education website and maintainand update the content.MediumOngoing(review y5)MediumOngoing(review y5)MediumOngoing(review y5)MediumOngoing(review y5)MediumOngoing(review y5)11-SC Provide educational opportunities afloat. MediumOngoing(review y5)SC1; SC2 CHCSC1; SC2 CHCSC1; SC2 CHCSC1; SC2 CHCSC1; SC2 CHCHants & W Sussexadvisors & teachers;educational conservationproviders; NEHants & W Sussexadvisors & teachers; FCH;NEHants & W Sussexadvisors & teachers; FCHActivity Centres; SC;educational conservationproviders; NEHants & W Sussexadvisors & teachersSC1 CHC Hants & W Sussexadvisors & teachersSC1 CHC Hants & W Sussexadvisors & teachers; NESC1; SC2 CHC Hants & W Sussexadvisors & teachers;Activity Centres; SC;educational conservationproviders; NESC1 CHC Hampshire Rural Learning;Food for Life; landownersSC1CHCSC1; SC2 CHCActivity Centres; SC70www.conservancy.co.ukMay 2009

2. Policies & Actions - EducationLinks to other relevant plans and strategiesHampshire and West Sussex County Councils current County Guidelines forEnvironmental EducationWest Sussex County Council Regulations and Notes of Guidance for Offsite ActivitiesThe National CurriculumExcellence and Enjoyment: A Strategy for Primary Schools. Department for Children,Schools and FamiliesOutdoor Manifesto: Department for Children, Schools and FamiliesOlder students undertake research within theAONB (above). Students of all ages benefit fromthe wealth of information on the online LearningZone (below)West Sussex Environment Strategy (2008)The role of lead organisations and partnersChichester Harbour Conservancy Co-ordination, provision of facilities and(CHC)materials, teaching expertise in the AONBHampshire and West SussexCounty CouncilsHampshire and West Sussexadvisors and local teachersEducation Authorities, links with schoolsand delivery of Government TargetsPlanning and development of theeducation service for schools and collegesEducational conservation providers Providers of a wide range of conservationand environmental education (includesHampshire County Council CountrysideService; Farming and CountrysideEducation (FACE) and other organisationsworking within the AONB who have a roleto play in the education of young people)Friends of Chichester Harbour(FCH)Sailing clubs (SC)Activity and education centresNatural England (NE)Food for LifeHampshire Rural LearningSupport in delivery of educationalprogrammeRepresent users of the HarbourOpportunities to broaden the provision ofenvironmental education in the areaGuidance, fundingPromoting rural learningLinking farming and educationField visits to East Head are enjoyed by groups of all ageswww.conservancy.co.ukMay 200971

Section & ChapterPart 2 Community Involvement15PoliciesCI1 To develop initiatives andactivities to involve all members ofthe community, including youngpeople, people with restrictedmobility and socially/economicallyexcluded, in the management ofChichester Harbour AONB.CI2 To help to meet the needs of thecommunity through appropriatemanagement of Chichester HarbourAONB.CI3 To ensure that proper emphasisis given by service providers anddecision-makers to the rural serviceneeds of those living and workingwithin the AONB.• In 2007/08, 72 events were organised by Chichester Harbour Conservancy in thelocal community, reaching a total of around 1,500 people, an average of 21 perevent 1 .• In 2007/08 the Conservancy held 18 talks and activities with community groups,reaching 634 people at an average of 35 per event 1 .• There are nine Parish Councils within the AONB and nine Residents Associations.• 33,000 copies of the Harbour News were produced in 2008 and distributed toprovide local people, boat owners and visitors with information about the AONB.• The total population of Chichester Harbour AONB is 8,351 (based on 2001 censusfigures). 53% of the population is in the 45-75+ age band 2 .• During the first three years of the Chichester Harbour AONB SustainableDevelopment Fund (2005 – 2008) 46 local projects were supported through grant aidamounting to £236,000 3 .BackgroundWhilst many people who live in Chichester Harbour AONB are aware of thedesignation, few have properly considered all the implications of a nationallyimportant landscape, an internationally important wildlife resource or the scopeand need for management required to maintain its status. It is imperative thatthose who live in, work in and visit the AONB understand its needs but also theeconomic value of its designation as an AONB in terms of landscape, beauty andrecreational resource.Working with local groups for the elderly, a DVDtells the stories of people who lived inChichester Harbour during WWIIThe success of the Management Plan to a large extent depends on support fromthe local community. The Conservancy has promoted and encouraged itsvolunteer support group, the Friends of Chichester Harbour, which now has amembership of some 3,000 - but this must be considered only a start in theprocess of involving all the AONB users. The Conservancy maintains close linkswith local community organisations including Parish Councils, ResidentsAssociations and Community Boards; the Manhood Peninsula CommunityForum, Bournes Community Forum, Manhood Peninsula Partnership and theLocal Strategic Partnership. Community involvement can also be encouragedthrough involving local amenity groups in the management of the AONB.Within a 10 mile catchment area of the AONB there are significant areas of socialdeprivation 4 . Involving the community in the delivery of the AONB ManagementPlan can help address some of the issues of poverty and social exclusion, whichhave been identified by the Local Authorities. The development of a range ofpartnerships is essential in order to engage the community in these importantissues.It is also important to be involved in the delivery and development of the LocalAuthority Cultural and Community Strategies, to ensure that issues relevant to theAONB are considered and included. In addition, the role of the Local StrategicPartnerships is of increasing importance in relation to the proposed changes inthe planning system and the way that areas develop in the future.Much work has already been undertaken by Chichester Harbour Conservancy inassociation with Action in Rural Sussex, Age Concern and other localorganisations to further the work of the Local Strategic Partnership group toreduce isolation among older people.721Chichester Harbour Conservancy annual report data2Chichester Harbour AONB Landscape Character Assessment (2005) Chris Blandford Associates3CHC annual www.conservancy.co.ukSDF monitoring report to LUC.4Index of Multiple Deprivation May 2009 (2007). Department of Communities and Local Government.www.communities.gov.uk

2. Policies & Actions - CommunityMain IssuesThe 2002 consultation workshops identified several main issues, many of whichare still relevant today. These were revised during the 2008 consultation process,and from experience of delivering the Management Plan over the past five years:► There are limited opportunities and facilities for non-boat owners to enjoyChichester Harbour AONB.► A limited involvement and participation of the community, harbour users,visitors and residents in the management of the AONB.► A limited knowledge of the needs of the community in relation to the AONB.► A limited knowledge of the work of the Conservancy and its partners inmanaging the AONB.► The raised expectations of the community against which the JAC may beunable to deliver.► There are weak links to certain areas of the community.► A need to build partnerships with specific interest groups.Actions to Engage Local CommunitiesRef Details Timing PolicyRefLeadOrg(s)Partners1-CIAct as a point of contact for community groups seekingadvice on the different activities in the AONB ensuringthat information is available to all social groups, inparticular those that are hard to reach.HighOngoing(review y5)CI1; CI2 CHC PC & Residents Associations;Youth Groups; DisabilityGroups; community groups(e.g. the WI), NE2-CIDevelop activities that engage all sectors of society inthe management of the AONB.HighOngoingAnnuallyCI1; CI2 CHC FCH; PC & ResidentsAssociations; CommunityBoards, LAs; Youth Groups,Disability Groups;Sport England; SC3-CIDevelop good communications through the website,email links, meetings, talks and events with the localcommunity.HighOngoing(review y5)CI1 CHC PC & Residents Associations;LAs; FCH; Youth Groups;Disability Groups; NE4-CI5-CIPlay an active role in the delivery and development ofParish Plans and Local Authority Cultural andCommunity Strategies through Local StrategicPartnerships and Local Forums.Engage with the relevant local community group orParish Council on projects that affect their particulararea, or where a partnership approach is beneficial.HighOngoing(review y5)HighOngoing(review y5)CI1; CI2;CI3CHCLAs; Local ForumsCI1; CI2 CHC PC & Residents Associations;Youth Groups; DisabilityGroups6-CI7-CI8-CIProvide opportunities for disadvantaged groups tolearn about Chichester Harbour AONB through visitsand outreach programmes.Support voluntary, community and interest groups withactivities within the AONB.Using the AONB Planning Guidelines, work withrelevant partners to ensure development of value to theAONB community, as appropriate.HighOngoing(review y5)MediumOngoing(review y5)MediumOngoing(review y5)CI1 CHC Youth Groups; DisabilityGroups, Older People’sgroupsCI1; CI2;CI3CI1; CI2;CI3CHCLAsLAs, FCH, CDAS, othercommunity and interestgroupsCHC; PC & ResidentsAssociations9-CIProvide financial and material support to local groupswhich actively support the delivery of AONB policiesthrough the Sustainable Development Fund and otherfunding streams.MediumOngoing(review y5)CI1; CI2CHC;NE;LAsFCHwww.conservancy.co.ukMay 200973

2. Policies & Actions - CommunityLinks to other relevant plans and strategiesHampshire County Council Cultural Strategy (in consultation)West Sussex County Council Cultural Strategy (2003-08)Game Plan - A Strategy for Delivering Government’s Sport and Physical ActivityObjectives (2002) Government Strategy UnitHampshire County Council Community Strategy (2004)Community Strategy for West Sussex (2004)Havant Borough Sustainable Community Strategy (2008-2012) (in progress)Community Strategy for Chichester District (2006-2016)Local volunteers provide invaluable support forarchaeology projectsA Vital Ingredient of Life – A Cultural Strategy for the Chichester DistrictThe Role of Lead Organisations and PartnersChichester Harbour Conservancy(CHC)Co-ordination, support, informationdissemination, promotionParish Councils (PC) and Residents Point of contact for Conservancy to reachAssociationsresidentsA volunteer work partyLocal Authorities (LAs)Local ForumsFriends of Chichester Harbour(FCH)Youth groupsOlder people’s groupsDisability groupsSport EnglandSailing clubs (SC)Natural England (NE)Chichester & District ArchaeologySociety (CDAS)Resources, information, funding, LocalStrategic PartnershipsCultural and Community ForumsVolunteer supporters, public informationand awareness-raisingRepresenting local young peopleRepresenting older people in thecommunityEnsuring the needs of people withdisabilities are recognisedPromotion of physical activity and sportsClubs within the AONB have a role to playin engaging with local communitiesAdvice, fundingProviding training, advice andvolunteers74www.conservancy.co.ukMay 2009

Part 33. ImplementationImplementation of theManagement PlanThere are three key threads to the successful implementation of the ChichesterHarbour AONB Management Plan that reflect the differing roles and financialprotocols of partner organisations identified within the Action tables.1. Chichester Harbour ConservancyThe Chichester Harbour Conservancy Business Plan (Appendix 4) sets out thebudgetary spend of the Conservancy over 5 years (2009 to 2014). TheChichester Harbour AONB Annual Progress Report is presented to theConservancy at the July meeting, reporting on the delivery of the Actionscontained within the Plan. In January each year the Environmental Report ispresented to the Conservancy containing a summary of Core AONB andEnvironmental work programmes.An Annual Work Programme for the Conservancy will be prepared forconsideration at their July meeting each year. Each year this Programme will beproposed based on the finances identified within the Business Plan and againstthe priorities set out in the Management Plan.2. County Councils, Local Planning Authorities, Natural England, theEnvironment Agency and English HeritageThe work of the Management Plan Steering Committee, made up of thoseauthorities identified within the CRoW Act 2000 as having responsibility for thedelivery and implementation of the Management Plan, is guided by the ActionTables contained within the AONB Management Plan. Each authority reportsback on the actions progressed each year through the Annual Progress Report.3. Other partner organisations identified in the Action tablesIt is anticipated that where other organisations identified within the Plan have anobligation under the CRoW Act 2000 to have ‘due regard’ for the AONB, thenthe Management Plan will form part of the information they require to set theirown budgetary priorities. Where partners have been identified that have nostatutory responsibilities, but have been part of the consultation process in theproduction of the Management Plan, it is hoped that they too will use the Plan toguide their own actions. To facilitate this, Actions are identified within theManagement Plan to maintain close liaison through regular meetings and todevelop points of contact for the delivery of the Plan.The Reporting ProcessThe successful delivery of the Management Plan against the implementationprocess described above will be monitored, reviewed and measured by using arange of indicators identified in Part 4 Monitoring, Review and Research. AnAnnual Progress Report will be prepa red by the Conservancy and its partnerseach year to demonstrate the progress of delivery against the Actions, and willinclude achievements of the AONB staff team in delivering elements of theManagement Plan.Clare Mansellwww.conservancy.co.ukMay 200975

Section & ChapterPart 4Monitoring, Review andResearchIt will be important to undertake a programme of monitoring to assess thecondition of the AONB throughout the life of the Plan and the implementation ofthe Management Plan itself.1.Monitoring the delivery of the AONB Management PlanAt the end of each year of delivery of the AONB Management Plan, partners areinvited to report on actions delivered during the year. Those organisations andgroups identified as Lead Organisations or Partners in the action tables who donot form part of the Steering Committee are also contacted to request theirannual progress against Actions. This process forms the basis of the ChichesterHarbour AONB Management Plan Annual Progress Report. The Report is madewidely available through the partner organisations and via the Conservancywebsite (www.conservancy.co.uk).During Year 5 of the current Management Plan, a Review will be undertaken inaccordance with the requirements of the CRoW Act. The Review will help informand develop the next AONB Management Plan, 2014 to 2019.2. Monitoring the condition of the AONBAn extensive condition survey and monitoring programme is carried out byChichester Harbour Conservancy and partner organisations including NaturalEngland and the Environment Agency. This programme has been used todevelop Indicators to monitor change over time against a base line set ofevidence. The Indicators are detailed in Table 2 together with the relevantsections within the Management Plan to which they contribute information.Details of information gathered by Chichester Harbour Conservancy are shown inTable 1. This data is therefore used to monitor the condition of the AONB bothspecifically, in the case of habitats and species, and, where the data can be usedin this way, to infer the general condition of the AONB in relation to landscape,recreation and socio/economic well-being. Full details of the survey andmonitoring programme carried out by Chichester Harbour Conservancy will bereported as part of the Annual Progress Report.Table 1: Repeat surveys undertaken by Chichester Harbour ConservancyWetland Bird SurveyLand-based Recreation SurveysPlanning permission granted in AONBFixed point photographyMonthlyEvery 5 yearsCollated annually30 years of data at selected locationsFish population survey 5 year intervals since 1999Sub-tidal flora and fauna Survey 1996, 2006Intertidal vegetation Surveys 1978, 1996, 2005Terrestrial vegetation SurveysTerrestrial faunaA range of surveys spanning 20 yearsA range of surveys spanning 20 yearsWater-based recreation survey 1988, 1995, 2004Vessel movement surveys Every 3 years since 1972Breeding seabird monitoringMonthly (in season)Breeding wader and waterfowl monitoringMonthly (in-season)Rare flora monitoringAnnual76David SteerSeagrass monitoringwww.conservancy.co.ukMay 2009Annual

4. MonitoringTable 2: Monitoring IndicatorsIndicator Data Source DataHolderFrequency &next plannedsurveyScaleManagementPlan PolicyBIODIVERSITYTrends in populations of over-winteringand passage wader & wildfowlWetland Bird Survey (WeBs)High Tide CountsLow Tide CountsCHCCHCMonthly5 years 2010AONBNC1, NC2,NC4, NC7Trends in breeding bird populationsBreeding seabirdsBreeding wader and wildfowlCHCCHCMonthlyMonthlyAONBNC1, NC2,NC4, NC7Change in extent and composition ofintertidal habitatIntertidal vegetation survey e.g.SkyvegNVC surveys of key sitesCHCCHC5 years 2010*Rollingprogramme*AONBNC1, NC2,NC3, NC4,NC6, NC7Trends in estuarine fish population Fish survey CHC 5 years 2009* AONB NC1, NC2,NC3, NC4,NC6, NC7Trends in marine biodiversitySubtidal habitats and speciessurveyCHC 10 years 2016* AONB NC1, NC2,NC3, NC4,NC6, NC7Species data trendsMonitoring of known key sites forrare arable speciesMonitoring presence/absence ofknown Seagrass sitesCHCCHCAnnualAnnualAONBNC1, NC2,NC3, NC4,NC6, NC7Recording Water Volesightings/activityCHCAd hocThorney Island Lepidoptera andOdonata transectsCHCAnnualDesmoulin’s Whorl SnailCHCUndertaken 2007*Change in extent and quality ofterrestrial habitatCondition assessment of CHCmanaged sitesNVC surveys of key sitesCHCCHCAnnualRollingprogramme*AONBNC1, NC2,NC3, NC4,NC6, NC7Changes to extent and condition ofSSSI’sCondition assessment NE ContinuousUndertakenFebruary 2008AONBNC1, NC2,NC3, NC4,NC6, NC7Changes to extent and condition ofSAC/SPA/RamsarCondition assessment NE As SSSI AONB NC1, NC2,NC3, NC4,NC6, NC7Changes to extent and condition ofSNCI’sCondition assessmentWSCCHCCAnnual reviewad hoc surveyAONBNC1, NC2,NC3, NC4,NC6, NC7Changes to extent of National habitatinventories entriesHabitat mapping; woodland,heathland, grassland; wetlandNE Various AONB NC1, NC2,NC3, NC4,NC6, NC7* Further surveys subject to fundingwww.conservancy.co.ukMay 200977

4. MonitoringTable 2: Monitoring IndicatorsIndicator Data Source DataHolderLANDSCAPEFrequency &next plannedsurveyScaleManagementPlan PolicyLandscape quality Countryside Quality Counts NE JointCharacterAreaTree and hedgerow planting – locationand number of treesUpdate Landscape CharacterAssessmentAnnual tree and hedge planting CHC Annual AONB L1, NC1, F1programmeRepeat LCA exercise CHC * AONB L2Tranquillity Tranquillity mapping CPRE Undertaken 2007 AONB L2FARMING & LANDUSEAgri-environment schemesParticipation and uptake of NE Annual AONB F1agri-environment schemesHigh Nature Value (HNV) Farmland Map data NE NC6Land Cover Map Land class mapping CEH Undertaken 2007 AONBL2THE HISTORIC ENVIRONMENTCondition of Scheduled AncientMonumentsNumber of Sites of historic /archaeological interestCondition assessment EH Ongoing HE1, HE2Historic Environment RecordCDC;HCCOngoing AONB HE1, HE2Condition of recorded archaeologicalsites at riskChichester Harbour ConditionAssessment of ArchaeologicalSites at RiskCHC;CDASNumber of Listed Buildings Listed Building register CDC;HBCAnnual AONB HE1, HE2,HE3Ongoing AONB HE1EDUCATION & ACTIVITIESNumber of student sessions offered bythe Education ServiceNumber of trips of visits for people withspecial educational needs or sociallydisadvantagedNumber of volunteer work parties heldRECREATION & AMENITYChichester Harbour AONBEducation Centre recordsChichester Harbour AONBEducation Centre recordsRecords of work parties held byCHC and Friends of ChichesterHarbourCHC Annual AONB SC1CHC Annual AONB SC2CHC Annual AONB L3, CI1Public Footpath ConditionMonitoring of footpath conditionundertaken by WSCC on ninemonth cycleWSCC;HCC9 months AONB EL1, EL2, EL5Length of Permissive routes available GIS data CHC;WSCC;HCCAnnual AONB EL1, EL2, EL5Land-based recreationLand-based recreation survey(Visitor Survey)CHC 5 years 2012 AONB EL1, EL2, EL4Vessel traffic Vessel movement surveys CHC 3 years 2009 AONB EW4Number of events held and attendancewithin the Activities ProgrammeRecord of attendance at CHCledactivities and eventsCHC Annual AONB AI1Water-based recreation activity Recreational boating surveys CHC 2012 then every5 yearsAONBEW1, EW278* Further surveys subject to fundingwww.conservancy.co.ukMay 2009

4. MonitoringTable 2: Monitoring IndicatorsIndicator Data Source DataHolderFrequency &next plannedsurveyScaleManagementPlan PolicyPLANNING & DEVELOPMENT CONTROLNumber of AONB Development Controlrecommendations accepted by the LPAAmount of Development within theAONBCLIMATE CHANGE & SEA LEVEL RISEPlanning Committee reports tomembers on DC decisionsNumber of planning applicationscommented on by AONBCHC Monthly AONB BD1CHC Collated annually AONB BD1Sea level riseChanges in climate patternsTidal gauge data fromPortsmouth HarbourTrends in temperature,precipitationTGI Regional CD1, CD2,CD3UKCIP Undertaken 2008 Regional NC7SOCIO-ECONOMICPopulation Census ONS;LPA10 years2011WardBD3, BD4Affordable housing LA District / BD3, BD4wardMultiple Index of Deprivation ranking LA Ward BD3, BD4,EL3,SC2Access to services LA District RB1, BD3,BD4WATERMeeting Shellfish Directive standardsRegular sampling byEnvironmental Health dept.CDC 6 monthly AONB WQ1Total number of mooring and marinaberthsData held by Harbour Office onmooring licencesNumber of Harbour Dues subscriptions Data collected by Harbour Officeharbour dues invoicesWater quality meeting Bathing WaterstandardsWater quality monitoring at 10sitesCHC Annually AONB HA7CHC Annually AONB EW1CDC;CHCFortnightly AONB WQ1AONB PARTNERSHIP & UNIT DELIVERY (PERFORMANCE INDICATORS)AONB Management PlanCurrent AONB ManagementPlanCHC;CDC;HCC;WSCC;EA;EH;HBCAONB PartnershipAONB Staff UnitRecord of meetings:quarterly JAC;monthly Planning Committee;annual Budget Advisory GroupNumber of staffReport annuallyAONBCHC Report annually AONBCHCReport annuallyAONBTraining & developmentCHCReport annuallyAONBFinancial resourcesAONB total incomeCHCReport annuallyAONBFunding received from NE andLocal AuthoritiesReport annuallyAONB* Further surveys subject to fundingwww.conservancy.co.ukMay 200979

4. MonitoringAONB PARTNERSHIP & UNIT DELIVERY (PERFORMANCE INDICATORS) continuedLeverage and ‘added value’ Matched funding generated CHC Report annually AONBFinancial management and reportingAONB Unit delivery to agreedtimetableCHCReport annuallyAONBNE delivery to agreed timetableCHC;NEReport annuallyAONBPartnership working with managementcommunitiesAONB Unit activity in NAAONBAONB Unit activity in localpartnershipsCHCCHCReport annuallyReport annuallyAONBAONBNumber of partner organisationsCHCReport annuallyAONBBusiness Plan targetsManagement Plan ProgressAchievement of targets set byAONB Business PlanDelivery of Management PlanactionsSUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT FUNDSDF IndicatorsNumber of projects fundedCHC Report annually AONBCHCandSteeringGroupCHCReport annuallyReport annuallyAONBAONBNumber of expressions ofinterest receivedCHCReport annuallyAONBTotal SDF grant awardedCHCReport annuallyAONBMatch funding generatedCHCReport annuallyAONBData HoldersCHCNEWSCCHCCCDCHBCCPRECEHEHCDASTGIUKCIPONSLPALAEAChichester Harbour ConservancyNatural EnglandWest Sussex County CounciHampshire County CouncilChichester District CouncilHavant Borough CouncilCampaign for the Protection of Rural EnglandCentre for Ecology and HydrologyEnglish HeritageChichester and District Archaeology SocietyTidal Guage InspectorateUK Climate Impacts ProgrammeOffice of National StatisticsLocal Planning AuthorityLocal AuthorityEnvironment Agency80www.conservancy.co.ukMay 2009

Part 5Glossary of TermsAffordable housing Housing subsidised in some way for people unable to rentor buy on the open housing market. The definition of 'affordable housing' will varyfrom place to place and over time depending upon local circumstances. The termincludes ‘key worker’ housing.Ancient semi-natural woodlands These are a very important type of wood forwildlife and cannot be replaced. Due to the continuity of woodland cover, theyhave had a long time to acquire stable and diverse communities of species.These are often rare and localised and are unable to spread to recent woodlandsin the now fragmented landscape.Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) An area designated by NaturalEngland under Sections 87 and 88 of the National Parks and Access to theCountryside Act 1949. The primary objective is conservation of the natural beautyof the landscape.Biodiversity Shorter term for 'biological diversity' which applies to all terrestrial,marine and other aquatic ecosystems and the ecological complexes of which theyare part.Birds Directive The Birds Directive is the primary European legislation for theprotection of birds. Special Protection Areas (SPAs) are designated by MemberStates which are designed to conserve the 182 birds listed in Annex 1 of the BirdsDirective as well as migratory birds.Coastal grazing marsh Periodically inundated pasture, or meadow with ditcheswhich maintain the water levels, containing standing brackish or fresh water.Almost all areas are grazed and some are cut for hay or silage.Coastal squeeze The term often used to describe the shrinking of coastalhabitats caught between rising sea level and fixed coastal defences.Eutrophication The over-enrichment of a body of water with nutrients, primarilynitrogen and phosphorus, resulting in excessive growth of organisms anddepletion of the oxygen concentration.Global warming Rising average world temperature caused by an increase inthe release of 'greenhouse' gases, principally carbon dioxide and methane, whichtrap the sun's heat and warm the earth's surface. Human activity such as theburning of fossil fuels and widespread deforestation have been the main causesof rising concentrations of greenhouse gases.Habitats Directive Under this Directive which was adopted in 1992, SpecialAreas of Conservation (SACs) are identified, the aim of which is to conserve the253 habitat types, 200 animals and 434 plant species listed under the HabitatsDirective.HectareAn area of measurement which covers 100 metres by 100 metres.Infilling Development between existing uses and buildings within a built-up areaboundary.Intertidal The area between extreme high and extreme low tide levels. Theintertidal area is an interface between the land and water. The alternate wettingand drying of this area by the tide cycles creates unique and challengingenvironmental conditions and habitats.Shirley Courtwww.conservancy.co.ukMay 200981

5. GlossaryLocal Nature Reserve (LNR) A statutory designation of a site of local natureconservation significance, declared by local planning authorities under theNational Parks and Access to the Countryside Act, 1949. Other non-statutorylocal nature reserves are established and managed by a variety of public orprivate bodies (e.g. county wildlife trusts, Royal Society for the Protection ofBirds).Managed realignment Managing changes in the location of the shoreline inresponse to rising sea levels.Mudflat An area of fine silt occurring in sheltered estuaries or behind shinglebars or sandspits. They are usually covered at high tide but exposed at low tide.Polytunnelvegetables.Polythene covered tunnel greenhouse used for growing fruit andRamsar site Ramsar sites are designated under an International Convention onthe conservation of wetland habitats and species. The Convention on Wetlands,signed in Ramsar, Iran, in 1971, is an intergovernmental treaty which provides theframework for national action and international co-operation for the conservationand wise use of wetlands and their resources.RytheA narrow channel within the harbour.Saltmarsh A coastal marsh found along low-lying shores, usually located in thesheltered part of an estuary or protected by a spit or expanse of mudflat. Theseareas become colonised by plant species able to withstand frequent andprolonged immersion in water.Settlement Policy Area Relates to an identified area where there is apresumption in favour of residential development.Shingle bank or beach A feature characterised by accumulations of loose,usually rounded rocky material (mobile cobble and pebbles) where sedimentparticles are mostly 16-256 mm in diameter.Site of Nature Conservation Importance (SNCI) or Site of Importance forNature Conservation (SINC) These are non-statutory designations coveringsites in Hampshire and West Sussex which have a significant wildlife value.Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) A Site of Special Scientific Interest(SSSI) is an area that has been notified as being of special interest under theWildlife and Countryside Act 1981. Notification as a SSSI is primarily a legalmechanism to protect sites that are of particular conservation interest because ofthe wildlife they support, or because of the geological features that are foundthere. SSSIs can be found all over Great Britain and help to form a nationalnetwork of areas with the greatest value to wildlife or geological conservation.Special Area of Conservation (SAC) A SAC is defined under the HabitatsDirective. These are sites of European Community importance designated by aMember State where the necessary conservation measures are applied tomaintain the site in ‘favourable condition’.Special Protection Area (SPA) SPAs are designated under the Birds Directive(see description of Birds Directive).Subtidal Waters below the low tide mark.Sustainable development Development that meets the needs of the presentwithout compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.82www.conservancy.co.ukMay 2009

Part 6AppendicesAppendix 1: Chichester Harbour AONB Management FrameworkChichester Harbour Conservancy Act, 1971The complexity of Chichester Harbour, in terms of both its international and national conservation value and itsimportance and use as a major recreational boating Harbour led, in the late 1960s, to concerns that there was not anadequate system of management to deal with the potential conflicts. This was recognised by both Harbour users and theLocal Authorities, and following a detailed study of the needs of Chichester Harbour in 1968 (the Chichester HarbourStudy), an Act of Parliament was promoted by West Sussex County Council (WSCC) and Hampshire County Council(HCC).The promoters recognised that Chichester Harbour could not be managed in isolation from the surrounding land and,rather than the area being managed through its political boundaries, should have a precise geographic identity. Thisfarsighted and innovative approach, which brought Chichester Harbour Conservancy (CHC) into existence, is now widelyrecognised and identified as integrated coastal zone management, and forms the model for such an approach both in theUK and abroad.The Chichester Harbour Conservancy Act (1971) states:“... whereas it is expedient that the said port and harbour, with certain areas of land adjacent thereto of high landscapevalue, and together offering opportunities of improvement for the purposes of recreation and the enjoyment of leisureboth on land and on water, should be administered by and under the control of one authority charged with theconservancy, maintenance and improvement thereof as a single entity: and whereas it is expedient in the public interestthat for this purpose there should be incorporated a new body, to be known as the Chichester Harbour Conservancy...”The Act lays down Chichester Harbour Conservancy’s function as follows:“It shall be the function of the Conservancy subject to the provisions of this Act to take such steps from time to time as tothem seem meet for the conservancy, maintenance and improvement of:(a)(b)The Harbour, for the use of pleasure craft and such other vessels as may seek to use the same.The Amenity Area, for the occupation of leisure and recreation and the conservation of nature and the facilities(including, in relation to the harbour, navigational facilities) afforded respectively therein or in connectiontherewith.In the fulfilment of the function with which they are charged by the sub-section 1 of this section the Conservancy shallhave regard to the desirability of conserving the natural beauty and amenity of the countryside and of avoidinginterference with fisheries.”Memorandum of Agreement 2001As well as amalgamating the two Harbours of Chichester and Emsworth, the Act identified an area of land themanagement of which Parliament felt could not be held separate from the management of the water. This area of land isknown in the Act as the Amenity Area of Chichester Harbour and it is approximately co-terminus with the boundaries ofthe AONB, although slightly smaller.Because of this relationship with the AONB, all Local Authorities and the then Countryside Agency (now Natural England)appointed the Chichester Harbour Conservancy and its Advisory Committee as the Joint Advisory Committee (JAC) formatters affecting the AONB. Natural England (as the Countryside Agency) and the four Local Authorities (Hampshire andWest Sussex County Councils, Chichester District and Havant Borough Councils) have reconfirmed this through aMemorandum of Agreement signed in 2001. Although the Agreement empowers the Conservancy to produce theChichester Harbour AONB Management Plan as defined by the Countryside and Rights of Way (CRoW) Act on behalf ofall of its partners, the delivery of objectives is the responsibility of all the partners.www.conservancy.co.ukMay 200983

6. Appendix 1Chichester Harbour ConservancyThe Conservancy is the policy and decision-making body set up by the Chichester Harbour Conservancy Act 1971. TheConservancy is made up of 15 members:OrganisationNumber of appointed membersHampshire County Council 4West Sussex County Council 4Chichester District Council 2Havant Borough Council 2Chichester Harbour Conservancy Advisory Committee 3The Conservancy receives advice from its principal officers, the Manager and Harbour Master, the Clerk and theTreasurer.The 1971 Act also established an Advisory Committee, composed of representatives of the various interests in theHarbour and AONB, which the Conservancy is legally obliged to consult on the management of the Harbour and theAmenity Area.OrganisationNumber of appointed membersAmateur Fishermen 1Chichester District Association of Local Councils 1Chichester Harbour Federation 4Commercial Interests 1Emsworth Harbour Fishermen’s Federation 1Farming and Landowning Interests 1Friends of Chichester Harbour 1Naturalists 1Natural England 2Residents in the Borough of Havant 1Royal Yachting Association 1Sport England 1Sussex Sea Fisheries Committee 1Wildfowlers 1While the Conservancy’s Advisory Committee does not have any statutory responsibilities or duties, it must be consultedand support and encourage an active partnership between all the agencies involved to co-ordinate management over allthe AONB. In support of this, the Countryside and Rights of Way (CRoW) Act places a duty on public bodies, includingLocal Authorities, to have regard for the statutory purposes of AONBs in carrying out their function.The aim of the JAC is to ensure that the AONB is managed effectively; provide a forum for the exchange of informationand ideas; consider issues likely to affect the area adversely and agree action; and make recommendations for newinitiatives.84www.conservancy.co.ukMay 2009

6. Appendix 1Structure and Relationship Between the Conservancy and the Advisory CommitteeThe ConservancyPlanning CommitteeBudget AdvisoryGroupAdvisory CommitteeChairman’s AdvisoryGroupInterest GroupsChichester Harbour Conservancy and the AONB Core Staff UnitThe AONB core staff unit is based within Chichester Harbour Conservancy and fits into its staffing structure as shownbelow.The ConservancyThe ClerkManager &Harbour MasterTreasurerOffice ManagerDeputy HarbourMasterAONB /EnvironmentManagerOffice and financialsupport staffPatrol OfficerMooring OfficerWorkshop staffSeasonal Patrol staffAONB Core StaffAONB OfficerEducation OfficerActivities OfficerPublicity andInformation OfficerPlanning OfficerEnvironment StaffConservation OfficerCountryside RangersEducation TeamTeacherswww.conservancy.co.ukMay 200985

6. Appendix 2Appendix 2: The Regional Importance of AONBsBackgroundChichester Harbour AONB is one of a family of 41 nationally important landscapes. These are part of the wider family ofprotected landscapes that includes National Parks. There are nine AONBs and two National Parks wholly or partly withinthe South East of England covering 35.8% of the region (the map below was drawn before the South Downs NationalPark decision). They are therefore important regional partners in environmental, economic and social terms and are keento develop further partnerships to help deliver their primary and secondary purposes of designation. The New ForestNational Park was created in 2005, and a decision is pending on the proposed creation of the South Downs NationalPark, however the quality of the landscape and its natural beauty is equivalent to that of an Area of Outstanding NaturalBeauty.The South East has one of the highest proportions of land designated for its landscape quality. It also has one of themost buoyant economies and highest population densities – all this means that the increasing importance of RegionalGovernment will have a strong influence on these landscapes and that, in turn, these landscapes must play a central andproactive role in shaping the on-going development and success of the South East.All South East AONBs will publish revised statutory AONB Management Plans by 1st April 2009 formulating the policiesof the constituent Local Authorities towards the management of their AONBs and also demonstrating a commitment ofdue regard for the AONBs by other partners.South East Region and London Region - designated and defined interestsRegional Partners and their RoleDEFRA works through the regional Government Offices to shape and deliver key European and national rural policiesand programmes which impact on the rural areas.The Government Office South East (GOSE) represents Central Government. GOSE works to influence, contract anddevelop Government programmes and initiatives at a regional and local level by working in partnership with relevantorganisations to meet local needs. Using its knowledge of the region it is able to ensure that Government money is spenton the right projects in the right areas. It is also able to ensure that Ministers are aware of local issues when makingdecisions.86www.conservancy.co.ukMay 2009

6. Appendix 2One of GOSE's main objectives is to support and promote a coherent regional approach to competitiveness, sustainabledevelopment, regeneration and social inclusion. To this end GOSE works with a number of regional partners to carry outits work. In particular, it works closely with the South East England Development Agency (SEEDA) and the RegionalAssembly.Regional Development Agencies (RDAs) were established by the Government through the Regional DevelopmentAgency Act 1998, to take the strategic lead in promoting the sustainable economic development of the region. Theydevelop and promote Regional Economic Strategies and have an important role in advising Government. Most of theSouth East AONBs fall within the South East England Development Agency (SEEDA) area. As AONB boundaries donot follow administrative boundaries inevitably some, such as the Chilterns and North Wessex Downs, cross into theEast of England and the South West RDA areas.The Regional Chambers or Assemblies were introduced in 1999. These are Local Government led, the majority of seatsbeing held by nominated Local Authority Members. They also include representatives of all the key regional interests,including the RDA and the voluntary sector. They promote the region’s interests in the UK and Europe and to theGovernment and its Agencies and provide regional accountability for the RDA. Most of the area is covered by SouthEast England Regional Assembly (SEERA). (As above Chilterns and North Wessex Downs come within the East ofEngland and South West England Regional Assembly areas).Regional Assemblies also have a lead role in areas such as transport and sustainable development. They areresponsible for the preparation of Regional Planning Guidance (which includes the Regional Transport Plan) and arerequired to agree Regional Sustainable Development Frameworks.The Regional Sustainability FrameworkThe Regional Sustainability Framework (RSF) for the South East was produced by SEEDA, GOSE and SEERA andlaunched in 2008 . The RSF results from a requirement by government to review the previous Integrated RegionalFramework and the earlier Regional Sustainable Development Framework (2001), and provides the overarchingframework within which all regional strategies and policies should be formulated and implemented. The RSF sets acommon vision, 25 objectives and four priorities that will help guide sustainable development in the South East. It alsocontains a Sustainability Appraisal guide that aims to encourage regional and local organisations, businesses andcommunity groups to review their own plans and strategies against the framework.The vision for the region in the RSF is a socially and economically strong, healthy and just South East that respects thelimits of the global environment. The RSF identified four priority areas where the South East is under-performing andaction is required to achieve the vision:► Achieving sustainable levels of resource use► Reducing greenhouse gas emissions associated with the region► Ensuring that the South East is prepared for the inevitable impacts of climate change► Ensuring that the most deprived people also have an equal opportunity to benefit from and contribute to a betterquality of lifeAs well as Regional Planning Guidance (RPG) and Regional Economic Strategies (RES) there are a growing number ofregional strategies which will have an impact on the management of AONBs. Amongst these are Regional TourismStrategies, Regional Cultural Strategies, Regional Housing Statements, Regional Chapters of the Rural DevelopmentProgramme and Regional Water Resource Strategies. Public bodies and statutory undertakers are required to haveregard to the purposes of AONBs. Consistency of aims and actions between these strategies and AONB ManagementPlans is essential. AONBs will also have a role in influencing the content of regional and subregional Spatial Strategies.Regional Spatial StrategyThe first Spatial Strategy for the Region, the South East Plan, is in its final consultative stage, with GOSE havingrequested feedback on those changes proposed by the Secretary of State. The key difference is the need for greatereconomic development, driven by increased housing. The Plan is already approaching its first revision and figures arelikely to increase further. The need to think creatively about the region’s natural beauty and landscapes and forlandscape to ‘work’ even harder to provide key functions and services is paramount.. Local Development Frameworkdocuments produced by the district, borough or unitary authority, working closely with local communities and linked totheir Community Strategies, will be key planning documents where decisions over local landscape character and qualitywill be made.The Joint Statement of Intent for protected landscapes in the South East committed partners (Natural England (formerlyCountryside Agency); Defra; GOSE; SEEDA; SEERA and the South East AONBs) to work together in nationallyprotected landscapes within the region and identifies shared objectives.www.conservancy.co.ukMay 200987

6. Appendix 3Appendix 3: Chichester Harbour Conservancy Planning Guidelines forChichester Harbour AONBPurpose of the Planning GuidelinesThe purpose of the Conservancy’s Planning Guidelines is to guide its members and officers when assessing planningapplications or changes to planning policies at all levels. These guidelines interpret the national, regional and localplanning policy framework as it applies to Chichester Harbour AONB. The planning policy context, within which thePlanning Guidelines sit, are given in a Policy Framework in each section of the Guidelines.The Planning Aims of the Conservancy1) To protect, conserve and enhance the natural beauty of the Chichester Harbour AONB.2) To protect, conserve and enhance the value of the area for wildlife.3) To conserve, maintain and improve the Harbour, and its associated facilities and marine industries, for water-basedrecreation, where they are consistent with 1 and 2.4) To support sustainable forms of industry and agricultural practice where they are consistent with aims 1, 2 and 3.5) To support the economic and social needs of the local communities where they are consistent with aims 1, 2 and 3.1.0 Agriculture and LandscapePOLICY A1. The Conservancy will seek to retain the rural nature of the area, opposing applications whichinvolve major changes in geomorphology or which introduce large numbers of people into the landscape. Inparticular the Conservancy will oppose any applications that have an irreversibly damaging effect on the ruraland natural nature of the landscape.Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty are designated for the conservation of the natural beauty of the landscape and topreserve their unique characteristics. Policies and development control decisions made by partner authorities that affectChichester Harbour AONB should favour the conservation of the natural beauty of the landscape, as well as theeconomic and social well being of the area.POLICY A2. Whilst it is recognised that some agricultural development is permitted development, theConservancy will seek to minimise the impact on the landscape of agricultural structures, that are out ofkeeping with the landscape, through the principle of prior notification. If the Conservancy is aware of anythreats from permitted development, it will urge the local planning authorities to seek an Article 4 direction forsignificant landscape or environmental areas, where it is apparent that this landscape or environmental value isthreatened by unacceptable land use.Almost all the area of the AONB is high-grade agricultural land. As such the pressures for alternative land use in times ofover-production have been considerably less than would have been the case had there been large areas of low-gradeland. The General Permitted Development Order 1995 sets out the requirement of prior notification to local planningauthorities by a farmer exercising their permitted development rights for agricultural purposes. This means that theConservancy is also notified of a proposed additional agricultural building within the AONB and has the opportunity tosuggest changes or raise concerns.POLICY A3. The Conservancy will support only those proposals for a change of use from agriculture to otherappropriate uses that can be accommodated without harming the open countryside or special landscapecharacteristics of that particular locality. Chichester Harbour AONB is outside of the areas designated forhorticulture in the adopted local plans. Any application for a change of use to horticulture will need todemonstrate the need for horticulture in that location, the impact of the buildings on the landscape, and theincrease of light and noise pollution.Farming is currently facing economic problems and this is encouraging farmers to diversify. This has included a changeto horticulture within the area. Horticulture is still defined in the Use Classes Order as an agricultural use and therefore isnot seen as a change of use in the legislation. The AONB is seeing a substantial increase in the demand for horticultureand has concerns over the intrusiveness of such buildings within the landscape. Glass itself is a reflective material and isvery visible from long distance views or within the immediate landscape setting. This is particularly the case when sitedclose to waterfront locations. Due to the loss of wooded shoreline and an increase in the openness in the landscape,there are very few locations within the AONB that can accommodate horticulture without a detrimental impact on thelandscape.POLICY A4. The Conservancy will only support the conversion of agricultural buildings to an alternative use ifThe Design and Access Statement submitted with the application outlines the following:• A business or tourism use is considered for the building before residential;• The design is sympathetic to its landscape context particularly the use of materials, the insertion of additionalopenings and prevents any urbanisation of the site, particularly if a residential curtilage is to be introduced;88www.conservancy.co.ukMay 2009

6. Appendix 3• Where a conversion is for a self-catering use or holiday home a holiday occupancy condition should beinstated as part of the planning permission;• Where residential is considered to be the best use, the statement should be submitted explaining why the siteis unsuitable for employment or a tourism use, and if the site is suitable as an exception site (as defined inPPS 3) and could be considered for affordable housing;• That protected species are not affected, such as bats and barn owls.With regard to the alternative uses of agricultural buildings, the Conservancy supports sustainable forms of economicdevelopment and recognises that agriculture and local industries must be able to adapt and evolve in response tochanging circumstances. However, the landscape and environmental qualities of the AONB are a primary concern andtherefore any applications for conversion of redundant agricultural buildings will be scrutinised for their landscape andconservation implications and their impact on the vicinity.POLICY A5. The Conservancy will seek to ensure that any proposed development for the diversification offarming, the conversion of existing redundant buildings, a new industrial or employment site, or a tourist orsports facility will not:• Cause a detrimental impact on the landscape by creating excess artificial light;• Cause a detrimental impact on the tranquility of the AONB by way of activity or the level of noise generated;• Be visually intrusive.The pressure for diversification in farming together with the ubiquitous nature of industry means that Chichester HarbourAONB has locations that are attractive to industrial development. This type of development can be intrusive in thelandscape and create light or noise pollution. Part of the reason for designating Chichester Harbour as an AONB is toretain its tranquility and landscape character. The AONB Landscape Character Assessment (2005) has identified areaswhere tranquility should be protected and sensitive areas where the cumulative effect of lighting will be damaging.POLICY A6. The Conservancy will only support telecommunications masts where:• A Design and Access Statement shows that there is a genuine need for the mast in that location within theAONB and no other suitable site or mast sharing opportunities are available outside of it;• That the mast is sited in an appropriate location within trees, or within an existing redundantstructure/building;• That the mast is sensitively designed, its colour, height and bulk is kept to a minimum and that opportunitiesto disguise the mast are made (for example it could be made to look like other vertical key features in thatlandscape, for example trees or telegraph poles).The Conservancy is now receiving further pressure for the erection of telecommunications masts within or adjacent to theAONB boundary. Any applications for these intrusive features need to be considered with care.POLICY A7. The Conservancy will only accept horse related development within the AONB that minimizes itsimpact on the wider landscape, does not have a detrimental visual impact by being located together with othersimilar developments, which are not of poor quality and not harmful to any sensitive sites for natureconservation. Any horse related development should:• Locate new buildings in existing groups of buildings on a site;• Be a structure necessary for grazing of horses and a simple horse shelter should still be of good design,using appropriate local materials of a dark palette and low ridge height.• Locate the structure against planting or another built backdrop to minimize its impact.• Apply conditions to ensure the inside storage of jumps and horse equipment; to encourage planting of nativespecies typical of Chichester Harbour AONB or post and rail fencing to any field boundaries.The use of agricultural land for horse grazing is changing the character of the AONB and eroding its rural qualities,particularly where paddocks are poorly managed and fields subdivided with inappropriate fencing, and horse shelters ofpoor quality are constructed. This together with other paraphernalia such as jumps and horse equipment stored outsideof the buildings has a detrimental impact on the character of the landscape, particularly in exposed locations. Whereplanning permission for horse related buildings is required then conditions to secure improvements in land managementfor horse use for that particular site can be pursued. In addition any new structure should be of appropriate scale, localmaterials and positioned in a location in the field where it has a minimal impact on the wider AONB landscape.POLICY A8 –The Conservancy will seek to ensure that historic environment issues are addressed in the LocalDevelopment Frameworks and also given due consideration in planning applications. Where a site ofarchaeological importance is identified, the Conservancy will liaise with the relevant local authority archaeologyofficer and advise the local planning authority on its records of the site and whether development is likely to beharmful to identified archaeology.www.conservancy.co.ukMay 200989

6. Appendix 3Historic landscape features, scheduled ancient monuments, listed buildings and archaeological sites are all-importantcomponents of the Chichester Harbour AONB landscape and contribute to its overall character. The Conservancy holdsdetails of the Chichester District, Hampshire County and West Sussex County Historic Environment Records whichdescribe sites of archaeological interest within the AONB.Agriculture and Landscape: Planning Policy FrameworkThese guidelines should be read within the following planning policy context:PPS 7 Countryside paragraphs 15-21,30,32,40, Annex A, Annex E, E30-E35; PPG 8 Telecommunications paragraphs3,20, 24-28,Appendix: paragraphs 7, 64,66-69; PPS 3 paragraph 30. PPG16: paragraph 12. Annex B: paragraphs 15-18.South East Plan Submission Draft: C3.Adopted West Sussex Structure Plan 2001-2016: CH2, CH3, CH4, CH5, CH6, CH7.Adopted Havant Borough District Wide Local Plan 2005: C1, L1, R6, PC4,Adopted Chichester District Local Plan Review 1999: RE1, RE4, RE6,RE12, RE14, RE29, C1, BE3.2.0 Built development - Land basedPOLICY B1. In principle, the Conservancy will support only those proposals for new residential developmentwhich are in existing defined settlement boundaries as shown on the proposals maps in the adopted LocalDevelopment Plans, or are expressly intended to meet the social and economic needs of the rural communitiesand which do not adversely affect the landscape or conservation qualities of the AONB. Any applications forinfilling within hamlets or villages outside of the identified built up areas will be resisted where it would result inharm to the character of the area by reducing plot size, intensifying development, and would result inunsustainable development.The AONB is designated for its special landscape qualities. In Chichester Harbour planning policies and developmentcontrol decisions should take full account of the special qualities that justify the designation of the AONB and sustain orfurther its purposes. The Conservancy’s Landscape Character Assessment defines landscape types and landscapecharacter areas providing guidance for proposed development. The Landscape Character Assessment defines keyfeatures and elements of each landscape character area and how new development will fit its context.To this end the Conservancy continues to support prioritising development in Urban or Settlement Policy Areas asdefined in the adopted development plans. Whilst it is understood that the planning authorities have approved infill orreplacement dwellings outside of these areas, the Conservancy will not normally support residential development outsideof defined settlement boundaries, unless it can be clearly demonstrated in a design statement that the infill developmentor replacement dwelling will not cause a detrimental impact on the wider AONB landscape. Sometimes there is a genuinesocio-economic need for a rural exception site for housing, in accordance with the local housing needs survey. TheConservancy would support the principle of exception sites.POLICY B2. The Conservancy will oppose any property extension or replacement dwelling which significantlyincreases the size of the property to the detriment of the landscape and that increases the developed frontage ofthe waterside, when seen from public vantage points, such as public footpaths or the water.The Conservancy’s report on small-scale incremental changes shows that most damage to the AONB comes from thecumulative impact of small developments within a concentrated area. The AONB’s attractiveness and landscape qualityfuel the demand for significantly extending homes, or creating much larger, grander replacement dwellings within theAONB in ways that are out of keeping with the landscape, particularly in waterside locations. The Conservancy willcontinue to resist development that is detrimental to the landscape.POLICY B3. The design construction and alteration of buildings in the AONB should reflect the nature of thelandscape and the natural environment by linking the built environment through the use of vernacular stylesand materials and good design. Special consideration will be given to such applications in respect of listedbuildings. Chichester Harbour Conservancy in conjunction with two local planning authorities have producedDesign Guidelines for New Dwellings and Extensions which should be referred to when assessing or presentingnew proposals.Proposals for new development should enhance the local distinctiveness of the AONB. Features that are locallydistinctive of the built environment of Chichester Harbour include:• Settlement patterns• The siting of its buildings and the distance between them• The materials used• Its landscape setting and topography• The proximity to sites of archaeological importance or to the setting of listed buildings, open spaces and trees.POLICY B4. Applications for further signage in Chichester Harbour AONB and on its boundary will be resisted inareas where clustering of signage is already identified as being harmful to the rural character of the AONB.Business premises which already have signage will be asked to consider advertising collectively by having onesingle coordinated sign for their advertising. This signage should be kept to the minimum size possible, an90www.conservancy.co.ukMay 2009

6. Appendix 3appropriate colour, scale and lettering and should be located in one position on the site. The illumination ofsignage, where deemed necessary, should be kept to a minimum and should not create visual intrustion in thelandscape. Internal illumination or tube lighting is not appropriate to the rural character of the AONB.Chichester Harbour AONB is a Special Area of Advertisement Control and proposals for new signage toproperties/business should be located and designed to ensure minimal impact on the AONB landscape. Further signageshould be avoided on premises where a clustering of signage at the site or in the immediate vicinity is already erodingthe quality of the area. The Conservancy in conjunction with its partners hopes to produce Design Guidance on new nonhighwaysigns to promote appropriately scaled signs and identify areas where clustering is already an issue and harmfulto the AONB landscape, this can be on the border of the AONB as well as within the AONB.POLICY B5. Micro-generation for householders: The installation of solar panels, domestic wind turbines, heatpumps etc either individually or in conjunction with other installations, should be appropriate to the scale of theproperty, its setting and should have a minimal impact on the wider AONB landscape, in particular:• Wind turbines either on buildings or stand alone should be positioned so as to minimise views of them frompublic vantage points in the wider AONB landscape, i.e. from the water or public footpaths; should be a darkcolour and not white; and not require the removal of existing planting/trees at the site.• Solar panels should be positioned on a roof slope of a dwelling or ancillary building facing away from publicvantage points, match the roof colour or be integral to the roof and be of minimum scale required.• Ground source heat pumps should be sited so they do not cause disturbance to designated sites for natureconservation and have minimal noise emissions to maintain the tranquility of the AONB.• Air source heat pumps should be sited behind buildings and out of view from public vantage points; be smallin scale and have minimal noise emissions to maintain the tranquility of the AONB.POLICY B6. Large-scale renewable energy sources are unlikely to be appropriate within Chichester HarbourAONB or close to its boundary because of the visual intrusion in the exposed Coastal Plain landscape anddisturbance to designated sites for nature conservation, which make up its character. Policy NRM15 of theSouth East Plan Submission Draft confirms that within protected landscapes renewable energy developmentshould be of small-scale or community based and that those proposals within or close to designated areasshould not undermine the purposes of designation either for landscape or nature conservation. TheConservancy would wish to see these principles of NRM15 reflected in Local Development Framework policy,including areas outside of the AONB but visible from within it. (For example Wind Turbines on the Downs couldstill have a significant visual impact on Chichester Harbour AONB as well as the South Downs AONB.)In its response to the consultation for Permitted Development Rights for Householder Micro-generation (small scaleforms of renewable energy for individual households) the government confirms that there will be no greater restrictionson permitted development rights for these types of development for National Parks or AONBs. This means there will bepermitted development rights available to householders for solar, wind, heat pumps, combined heat and power, biomass,and the restrictions applied in protected landscapes will be the same as undesignated areas. The Conservancy, inconjunction with its partners, intends to produce Design Guidance on microgeneration to try to address some of theseissues. Policy B5 above hopes to provide those seeking to install microgeneration technology with suggested locationsand materials that would be more appropriate to the character of Chichester Harbour AONB.POLICY B7. Natural England is the statutory consultee responsible for advising on whether an AppropriateAssessment is required under the Habitats Regulations. Local Planning Authorities are responsible forundertaking a screening opinion to establish whether an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) is required forSchedule 2 or 3 developments within the AONB. The Conservancy will normally be consulted in these situationsand will assess the potential impacts based on its own data and guidance such as the Biodiversity Action Planand Landscape Character Assessment (2005) and will seek to ensure there will be no harm to the designatedsites for nature conservation.POLICY B8. The presence of protected species on a site is a material consideration in planning terms. Theextent of protected species and how they may be affected by any proposed development should be assessedprior to development being permitted and appropriate conditions suggested through survey if these would makethe development acceptable. Areas around existing designated sites can also be part of an overall habitatnetwork as defined in PPS 9 paragraph 12. Where development affects these areas and the integrity of adesignated site the Conservancy is likely to raise an objection to the proposals.The impact of development within the AONB on designated sites for nature conservation is a key issue and theConservancy seeks to ensure that no harm to designated sites occurs through the development process. Designatedsites are an important part of the Harbour’s ecology and character and the legislation contained in the HabitatRegulations (1994), the EIA Regulations, the CRoW Act (2000) and the Wildlife and Countryside Act (1981), all provide astringent legislative framework to ensure this is avoided unless it is in the overriding national interest. The Conservancywill comment on all planning proposals that affect wildlife and will seek to inform the process based on its own data andsurvey work.www.conservancy.co.ukMay 200991

6. Appendix 3Built development - Land based: Planning Policy FrameworkThese guidelines should be read within the following planning policy context:PPS 1 paragraph 17; PPS 7 paragraph 21, and paragraphs3.19 –3.21; PPS 3 paragraph 30, 68-69;PPS9; PPS22 andPPG19South East Plan Submission Draft: C3, NRM2, NRM4, NRM15Adopted West Sussex Structure Plan 2001-2016 deposit draft: CH2, DEV1Adopted Havant Borough District Wide Local Plan: C3, D1, L1, ENG1, NC2, NC4, NC5Adopted Chichester District LocalPlan Review 1999: RE1, RE4,RE12, RE14, C1, BE9, H123.0 Infrastructure and Integrated AccessPOLICY C1. To improve integrated access within the AONB, the Conservancy will expect appropriate newdevelopment to make contributions to improving local public transport services and cycling or walkingopportunities within the AONB as identified in the Local Transport Plans. Major employment and tourism useswill be expected to produce Green Travel plans to show how workers and visitors will be using alternativemethods of travel.The accessibility issues around parts of the AONB are mainly in the peninsula locations of Hayling Island and theManhood. The improvement of the infrastructure and accessibility in these areas will be supported in principle.The Hampshire and West Sussex Local Transport Plans do encourage greater use of public transport, walking andcycling, both for visitors and local people. The Conservancy and its partners are promoting several initiatives including anew cycle network and the provision of a rambler bus, as well as improving facilities for horse-riders. In addition, theConservancy will work with its partners to provide more integrated access links and information for the AONB. This willinclude leaflets showing train times, bus times around the AONB and links for pedestrians and cyclists from main publictransport nodes.The diversification of farming and conversion of redundant agricultural buildings can often be for employment or tourismuses that make an important contribution to the economic vitality of the AONB. Where such uses are compatible with thelandscape the Conservancy will look for the submission of Green Travel Plans and some funding towards routes andlinks for the AONB.POLICY C2. The Conservancy will seek early consultation with the appropriate highway and planning authoritieson any new road proposals within or adjacent to the AONB.Although alternative methods of transport to the car are being promoted in Local Transport Plans, there is still pressurefor new roads within or just outside the AONB that will affect the rural quality and tranquility of the area.POLICY C3. The Conservancy will support small, screened and well-sited, car parks and some extension of theexisting car parking areas where these are significant to the needs of the AONB.The Conservancy is aware of the demand for additional parking in the area. Being mindful that car parks can be anattraction to visitors, the siting and screening of these should be very carefully considered. The Conservancy will look toreduce parking pressure in small village environments.Transport and Integrated Access: Planning Policy FrameworkThese guidelines should be read within the following planning policy context:PPG 13, paragraphs 40 – 44South East Plan Submission Draft: C3.Adopted West Sussex Structure Plan 2001-2016: NE12, NE13, NE14.Adopted Havant Borough District Wide Local Plan: T5, T6, T8.Adopted Chichester District Local Plan Review 1999:RE4, TR8, TR94.0 Built Development – CommercialPOLICY D1. To protect existing waterside sites for marine uses and water related facilities any new developmentor redevelopment of boatyard and marina sites will only be permitted for uses associated with boat building,repair, maintenance and ancillary uses. Where a site has been vacant for a long period of time and it can bedemonstrated through marketing for at least a year that a marine facility is no longer viable, a mixed useretaining some marine use and alternative employment uses will be considered provided that can beaccommodated without harming the special qualities of the area and which are capable of reversion to marineindustrial use at a later stage.The Conservancy and its partners view a change of use of any existing Harbour boatyards to residential developmentwith concern. In the interest of maintaining the health of the local economy, the Conservancy and its partners will supportsuitably appropriate alternative commercial uses where these can be accommodated, without harming the essentialqualities of the area.92www.conservancy.co.ukMay 2009

6. Appendix 3POLICY D2. All applications for a change of use will be considered alongside the need to maintain the landscapeand nature conservation interest of the AONB. Any applications for conversion of redundant agriculturalbuildings to industry will be scrutinised for their landscape and conservation implications and their impact onthe vicinity.POLICY D3. Extension of existing employment units on existing industrial parks or estates within or close to theboundary of the AONB need to ensure that the scale of the extension and its proposed materials, are designedto minimise the visual impact of the building. Where an existing building is visually intrusive, any applicationthat seeks an extension to it should ensure some remodelling of the building to improve its appearance and itsamenity within the AONB. Existing planting to the site boundaries should be retained and further planting ofnative species typical of Chichester Harbour AONB should be undertaken to ensure the rural character of thearea is maintained.It is contrary to the purposes of the AONB designation to allow major industrial or commercial development in ChichesterHarbour AONB. In Chichester Harbour it should be assessed whether the proposed commercial development isnecessary to sustain the rural economy and this should be balanced with the need to protect the countryside. In addition,any new commercial uses should be accessible by a variety of transport modes, unless the development would onlycreate modest traffic movements.In this context the Conservancy is concerned that industrial development should be confined to existing sites andsuitable activities where these have established rights. With regard to the conversion of such sites, the Conservancyrecognises that the main impetus for such a change arises from the difficulty in maintaining the financial viability ofboatyards in the face of increased land development values. However, the Conservancy is also aware that a policy whichresisted any change of use could lead to a derelict site and the loss of employment. Therefore the Conservancy issympathetic to applications for alternative industrial uses where these do not harm the AONB and where reversion tomarine industrial use is possible.There are existing industrial estates on the edge of the AONB and also smaller rural employment sites within the AONB.Any application to extend or alter the buildings in these locations will be assessed on its visual impact on the AONB toensure the new extension is of an appropriate scale and form to its landscape setting.The need for that extension will need to be described in any supporting statement.Built Development - Commercial: Planning Policy FrameworkThese guidelines should be read within the following planning policy context:PPG 4,1992: paragraph 13PPG20PPS 7: paragraphs: 5,19,20,22.South East Plan Submission Draft: C3, NRM8,Adopted West Sussex Structure Plan 2001-2016: CH1, CH2, DEV1, DEV2, DEV3, DEV4Adopted Havant Borough District Wide Local Plan 2005: EMP 7, EMP9, C1, L1.Adopted Chichester District Local Plan Review 1999:RE4, RE14, RE15, C1, C7, B2, B3, B4, B55.0 Jetties and Slipways, Navigational Facilities and Sea DefencesPOLICY E1. In considering proposals for development of jetties and slipways the Conservancy will takeecological, landscape and safety of navigation considerations into account with a presumption againstdevelopment in those areas identified as being un-spoilt by existing structures, where the landscape andconservation value is high and the area is most congested by vessels.POLICY E2. Development which creates the need to modify, relocate or redistribute the number of moorings,marina berths or launch-on demand facilities will only be allowed if there is no detrimental impact on safety ofnavigation, sailing, the designated sites for Nature Conservation and landscape.The Harbour is designated as internationally important for nature conservation. It also carries national and localdesignations for nature conservation. The 1994 Habitats Regulations require Natural England to assess whether theproposed development will have a significant adverse impact on the features and species of interest within the Europeansite. If Natural England decide it will be damaging then the developer will be required to undertake an AppropriateAssessment.Following an Appropriate Assessment the local planning authority and Natural England can determine whether thedevelopment is acceptable and if so what conditions may be necessary.POLICY E3. Dredging licences will be granted to enable existing facilities to operate.POLICY E4. Any application to dredge in a new area must be accompanied by an appropriate assessment of theimpact of the dredging on the Harbour activities and its ecology.www.conservancy.co.ukMay 200993

6. Appendix 3POLICY E5. The Beneficial Disposal Study will be used to inform the Conservancy's recommendations.The Conservancy recognises the need for certain maintenance dredging to be carried out to enable existing facilities tobe used to their designed maximum. It also recognises that the inter-tidal mudland is an irreplaceable conservationresource and that any permission given to dredge should be fully justified. In connection with this the Conservancy iscontinuously researching in its Beneficial Disposal Study where the Harbour should be dredged and whether there areareas within the Harbour that would benefit from the deposition of sediment for nature conservation or other purposes setout in the recommendations of the study. It should be remembered that the Conservancy has a duty to maintain andimprove navigational facilities within the Harbour. This includes the duty to maintain the present navigable depth of waterin the main channels.POLICY E6. Proposed sea defence works must not be damaging to nature conservation interests andenvironmental impacts must be properly assessed.POLICY E7. If shown to be necessary, the sea defence must be well engineered and capable of withstanding theforces acting on the sea defence. Any impacts on nature conservation interests should be mitigated.POLICY E8. The sea defence works should be as sympathetic to the landscape as possible and the materialsand style chosen must be carefully considered in each location and not selected purely by cost. TheConservancy’s recommended form of replacement sea defence is rip-rap style revetment. This method ofconstruction helps to reduce erosion by absorbing the impact of the waves; it also enables vegetation to growover it in time making it a more natural part of the landscape.POLICY E9. Sea defence works should not have an adverse impact on navigation.Chichester Harbour’s shoreline is continuously eroding as it has always done as part of the natural coastal process. Thewhole area is slowly sinking due to geological movements in the South East area. With the onset of global warming andsea level rise, the inter-tidal mud-land is being squeezed between rising sea levels and coastal defences. This leads to asignificant reduction in the area of mudflats and salt marshes that support plants, invertebrates and birds. Because of theEuropean and national nature conservation designations in the Harbour, Relevant Statutory Authorities have to takereasonable steps consistent with their functions to further the conservation and enhancement of Sites of SpecialScientific Interest and to not undertake or give permission for any works that adversely affect the integrity of theEuropean site.When considering applications for new sea defences several factors should be considered:• Movement of material along the coastline• The effects on economic activity• The introduction of managed retreat in low-lying coastal areas.• Cumulative effects.• Navigation.Local planning authorities in conjunction with partner organisations have a responsibility for improving and enhancing thecoast in areas of natural beauty and high conservation value and to restore stretches of the despoiled coastline.As a consequence of global warming, the threat of increased flood risk means that Harbour side landowners areincreasingly seeking to defend their boundaries. Farmers of low-lying areas also wish to carry out works andimprovements to their sea defences. Where sea defence works are sought it is likely that an Appropriate Assessment willbe required.Jetties and Slipways, Navigational Facilities and Sea Defences: Planning Policy FrameworkThese guidelines should be read within the following planning policy context:PPS 9: paragraphs 6-12 and 15 and 16. Circular 06/2005: paragraphs 9-20, 99,118-124, Statutory Instrument 1999No.293, Town and Country Planning EIA Regulations 1999.PPG 20,1991:4.5 and 4.6; PPS25South East Plan Submission Draft: C3, NRM4, NRM5, NRM8Adopted West Sussex Structure Plan 2001-2016: CH1, CH2, CH5, ERA2,ERA3Adopted Havant Borough District Wide Local Plan 2005: R1 (iii), R8, NC2, NC4, NC5Adopted Chichester District Local Plan Review 1999:RE4, C1, C2, C3, C4, C9, C106.0 Waste DisposalPOLICY F1. The Conservancy will recommend refusal of any applications for dumping waste materials and urgethe planning authorities and where appropriate the waste regulation authorities to take action againstunlicensed tipping.The dumping of rubble and unsightly material, sometimes being proposed as a sea defence, creates blight on thelandscape and has reduced the size and quality of habitats for wildlife and nature conservation in the past.94www.conservancy.co.ukMay 2009

6. Appendix 3Coastal and Shoreline Management Planning Policy FrameworkThese guidelines should be read within the following planning policy context:PPG 20,1991:4.5 and 4.6; PPS10South East Plan Submission Draft: W1, W2, W6Adopted West Sussex Structure Plan 2001-2016: CH1, CH2, ERA2, ERA3Adopted Havant Borough Local Plan 2005: C3, L1Adopted Chichester District Local Plan Review 1999:RE4, C1, RE7, RE87.0 Formal Recreation and TourismPOLICY J1. The Conservancy will oppose any facility which will provide new public access to the water forvessels or will increase the number of vessels using the harbour.POLICY J2. The Conservancy will continue to maintain a moratorium on additional deepwater moorings.POLICY J3. The Conservancy will oppose any proposals for new marinas at heads of channels.POLICY J4. The Conservancy will support the provision of additional facilities for visiting yachts and theimprovement of existing recreational facilities where these are consistent with planning aims 1 and 2.POLICY J5. The Conservancy will support the replacement of existing moorings with marina berths.Whilst recreation is not an objective of AONBs, the demand for recreation can be met as long as it is consistent withmaintaining its tranquillity and natural beauty. All estuary plans have to manage the rapid growth of the demand formarinas, boat moorings, parking, and dry berthing and launching.For some time, the Conservancy has recognised that water-based recreation in the Harbour has reached a point ofcongestion at peak periods, which can be dangerous and detracts from the value of recreation. The Conservancy willoppose any further proposals for marinas at or near the heads of channels. It has a moratorium on further deepwatermoorings and will recommend refusal of any applications, which permit additional public access to the water for vessels,in order to keep this crowding to a minimum. However, the Conservancy feels that a blanket ban on moorings or themovement of moorings would reduce its ability to manage the Harbour in response to changes in patterns of use.Additional marina berths, boat racks and other facilities can only be created by wasting existing moorings or other boatstorage facilities.Formal Recreation and Tourism: Planning Policy FrameworkThese guidelines should be read within the following planning policy context:PPG 17, 2002: paragraphs 28, 29,31PPG 20,1991:paragraphs 3.4 –3.9South East Plan Submission Draft: C3, TSR2Adopted West Sussex Structure Plan 2001-2016 deposit draft: CH1, CH2, NE11Adopted Havant Borough District Wide Local Plan: R8Adopted Chichester District Local Plan Review 1999:RE4, C5, C68.0 Informal Recreation and TourismPOLICY K1. The Conservancy will support the sympathetic location of additional viewpoints, improvements tothe rights of way network for long-term access and those with limited mobility, provision of a cycle network andadditional visitor information at appropriate locations.1.5 million people visit Chichester Harbour AONB every year because of its unique character, landscape and tranquility.This means that any new development in the AONB needs to draw on the character of its countryside and not detractfrom the very asset on which its popularity depends.The Conservancy remains concerned over the carrying capacity of the AONB and will continue to seek ways of reducingthe impact of visitors on the AONB, both in terms of the visitors themselves and also how they travel to and around theAONB.Sustainable forms of transport should be supported and the Conservancy has now established a Chichester to WestWittering cycle route to encourage a reduction in car use. Work will continue with access partners to identifyimprovements to existing routes and opportunities for new long-term access solutions, primarily through the Rights ofWay Improvement Plans and liaison with AONB landowners.POLICY K2. The Conservancy will seek to resist any further extension of caravan sites but would support thesmall scale, sympathetic conversion of existing buildings for holiday accommodation and small scale tentedcamping sites where this does not infringe conservation policies or create new dwellings in the countryside.(Refer to policy A4.)www.conservancy.co.ukMay 200995

6. Appendix 3The demand for tourist accommodation is served by small-scale guesthouses in the Harbour villages and by caravansites. There is a shortage of self-catering accommodation in the AONB. The conversion of derelict or underused farmbuildings can provide appropriate sites for such uses in principle. To ensure that these conversions are not lost toresidential use, the Conservancy will seek holiday occupancy conditions where appropriate.POLICY K3. The Conservancy will seek to ensure that caravan rallies, establishment of Certified Locations orother caravanning / camping related activities be for a duration, frequency and extent which is appropriate to theAONB. In addition, the location of such facilities should not have a detrimental impact upon the AONB, andvisually sensitive and exposed sites should be avoided.The presence of caravans or tents, even in small numbers for short periods of times, can have a detrimental impact uponthe AONB landscape. To ensure that their impact is reduced, exposed or visually sensitive sites should be avoided. Inaddition, the frequency and duration of events or rallies should be maintained at a level appropriate to the sensitivelandscape of the AONB. The Conservancy will continue to work with the local Planning Authorities, landowners and theCaravanning and Camping Club and other appropriate bodies to ensure that there are no detrimental landscape impactsfrom caravanning / camping within the AONB.Informal Recreation and Tourism: Planning Policy FrameworkThese guidelines should be read within the following planning policy context:PPG 13, 2001: paragraphs 37, 40, 41, 42PPS 7: 18,19,21,35-40Good Practice Guide on Planning For Tourism: Paragraphs 3.24-3.25 and 5.3,5.11. Annex A paragraph 7, Annex B.South East Plan Submission Draft: TSR4ii, TSR5, TSR6, C3, C6Adopted West Sussex Structure Plan 2001-2016: CH1, CH2, NE11, NE12Adopted Havant Borough District Wide Local Plan 2005: L1, TO4, TO5Adopted Chichester District Local Plan Review 1999: RE4, R4, T3, T4, T6, T7, T9, T109.0 Environmental management and improvements through planning conditions andSection 106 AgreementsPOLICY N1. The Conservancy wishes to see landscape proposals conform to the guidelines laid down in theLandscape Character Assessment (2005) and the Chichester Harbour AONB Design Guidelines for NewDwellings and Extensions (2007).Particular attention will be paid to the siting, design and landscaping of all applications. Landscape proposalsinvolving tree planting will be scrutinised to ensure that the planting is in keeping with the existing landscapeand uses species typical of the AONB, and has a nature conservation value. Mechanisms to achieve theimplementation of improvements to the objectives of the AONB include Section 106 agreements and planningconditions. The Conservancy will support their use where appropriate.POLICY N2. If proposals to fell trees are made in areas identified by the landscape assessment and the tree andhedgerow survey as significant to conservation or the landscape, the Conservancy will request the localplanning authority to make whatever Tree Preservation Order is necessary to enable more time for landscapeand conservation considerations to be assessed.Where trees add special interest or areas of woodland are identified as being under threat the Conservancy will seek aTree Preservation Order where appropriate. It is recognised that protection for trees and hedgerows will at times berequired at short notice.POLICY N3. The Conservancy will work in conjunction with its local planning authority partners to ensure thatSection 106 agreements and planning conditions are used to mitigate negative impacts on the environment ofthe AONB and secure positive, social, economic and environmental benefits to fulfil the purposes of thedesignation.The Conservancy will seek the co-operation of the local planning authorities in obtaining the necessary legal agreementsto protect locations affected by development and to achieve some gains. Such agreements could cover:· Improvements in access to the countryside, including access by the disabled.· Sympathetic management of land of conservation value, excluding it from further pressure.· Improvements to the general infrastructure, which encourage acceptable levels of use.The use of planning conditions in the granting of planning permission is a way of enabling the development to take placeprovided that criteria set out in the conditions are met and if not can be enforced. Sometimes when planning appeals areallowed by the Planning Inspectorate their report often contains some useful model conditions. The Conservancy wouldsupport the introduction of conditions by the local planning authorities where appropriate. However planning applicationsshould be good enough to approve and not simply made acceptable by conditions.96www.conservancy.co.ukMay 2009

6. Appendix 4Appendix 4: Chichester Harbour Conservancy Business Plan (2009 to 2014)1.0 IntroductionChichester Harbour Conservancy is a Trust Port; it has stakeholders not shareholders, it does not make a profit from itsactivities and all of its income goes back into running the harbour and the AONB for the benefit of the users.The Conservancy’s Business Plan is based on two separately managed accounts: the Harbour account and theEnvironmental Management account. The Harbour account is funded principally from charges to Harbour users includingharbour dues, mooring charges and rents. The Environmental Management account is funded in part from precepts onHampshire and West Sussex County Councils and by grant aid from Natural England, which contributes towards theAONB core staff unit and specific works projects. The Friends of Chichester Harbour make contributions to theConservancy from subscriptions and donations.Annual surpluses, together with income from Conservancy-controlled car parks within the AONB, are placed in aDevelopment Fund. This is used to accumulate funds to meet the costs of future capital developments, both within theHarbour, such as dredging and improvements to harbour services, and within the AONB, such as the acquisition andimprovement of sensitive sites requiring protection. This fund also acts as a general reserve for the Conservancy and ismaintained at a level which would cover one year’s operating costs.Income is allocated as shown in Table 1 belowTable 1: Allocation of incomeSource Conservancy’s statutory function Environmental management ofas a Harbour Authoritythe AONBHarbour DuesMooring ChargesPrecept on West Sussexand Hampshire County CouncilsFriends of Chichester HarbourcontributionsCar Parks Natural England2.0 The Conservancy’s Statutory Harbour Authority functionThe majority of the Conservancy’s actions relating to the discharge of its Harbour Authority and water based recreationpolicies are operational and “on-going”. They vary little from year to year and are funded through the revenue budgetwhich is set annually. The replacement programme for high value items such as vessels and pontoons is funded from aRepairs and Renewals Fund, which is maintained by annual contributions from the revenue budget.Table 2 shows the budgeted income and expenditure for 2008/09 for the Conservancy’s statutory Harbour Authorityfunction.Table 2: Income & Expenditure - Harbour AuthorityINCOME £000 2008/09Harbour Dues 304Moorings and site licences 581Other income 186EXPENDITUREEmployees 459Leases 211Other expenditure 354SURPLUS 47www.conservancy.co.ukMay 200997

6. Appendix 43.0 Environmental Management of the AONBFunding for the management of the AONB is largely dependent on local and central government budgets that aredetermined and allocated annually. The level of funding to the Conservancy cannot, therefore, be guaranteed withabsolute certainty over the five year lifetime of this Business Plan. The following assumptions have therefore been madeabout the likely level of funding:• The precept on the two County Councils will increase annually by RPI over the five year period of the ManagementPlan• Income from Natural England, in terms of Core Funding, Sustainable Development Fund payments and ProjectGrants, will continue at current levels in real terms• Income from the Friends of Chichester Harbour will continue for the life of the Management Plan at around currentlevels.Table 3 below summarises the income and expenditure for the environmental management of the AONB over the fiveyear period of the Management Plan. Figures assume an annual 2.5% RPI increase for illustrative purposes only, andare subject to annual budget decisions.Table 3: Income and Expenditure - EnvironmentYear INCOME EXPENDITUREPrecept onCountCouncils4.0 SummaryNaturalSDFEnglandincomecore fundingOtherincomeStaff and other costsTotal Staff OtherSDFprojectsEnvironmentalmanagementprojects£000 £000 £000 £000 £000 £000 £000 £000 £000 £0002008/09 305 116 62 79 562 341 87 62 72 562Year 12009/10Year 22010/11Year 32011/12Year 42012/13Year 52013/14315 119 62 81 577 350 89 63 75 577327 122 62 83 594 358 91 65 80 594338 125 62 85 610 367 93 66 84 610350 128 62 87 627 376 95 68 88 627362 131 62 89 644 386 97 70 91 644The project budget shown in Table 3 provides the resources to meet the Conservancy’s commitments in delivering theManagement Plan. Decisions as to the priority of projects and activities will be made on an annual basis, to allow for theneed to respond to opportunities that arise. Progress in delivering the Management Plan will be reported to theConservancy in January each year and will form part of the Annual Review for Natural England on the work on the AONBcore unit.Total98www.conservancy.co.ukMay 2009

www.conservancy.co.ukMay 2009

Chichester Harbour ConservancyHarbour OfficeItchenorChichesterPO20 7AW01243 512301harbourmaster@conservancy.co.ukwww.conservancy.co.ukwww.conservancy.co.ukMay 2009