Over 400 square metres of Oyster reefs to be created off Chichester Harbour
The reefs naturally filter seawater and improve water quality
Over four hundred square metres of new oyster reefs are being created off Chichester Harbour.
The reefs naturally filter seawater, improve water quality and build mini underwater cities that shelter fish, plants and other marine life.
It's part of an ongoing partnership between Southern Rail and environmental charity the Blue Marine Foundation.
The rail operator previously supported research into the regeneration of kelp habitats between Selsey and Shoreham-by-Sea, finding 92 different species since a ban on trawlers scraping the sea floor.
Jason Brooker, Southern and GTR’s Head of Environment and Sustainability, said: “Healthy seas are vital for a thriving environment, and supporting oyster reef restoration in the Solent is a great example of how partnerships can help rebuild biodiversity.
“As a railway serving many communities along the South Coast, it’s important we play our part in protecting and restoring the habitats that make these places special.
"Supporting projects like this also gives our colleagues the chance to get involved and see the impact first-hand.”
Dr Luke Helmer, Blue Marine Foundation’s Restoration Science Manager, said: “Oyster reef habitat was once critical to the health of our coastal environment.
"If we want to live in clean, healthy areas then we have no choice, we must restore the natural environment that has been lost.
"This reef marks a real landmark and a shift to larger-scale restoration, hopefully paving the way for others across Europe."