Pollution in Christchurch Harbour is an “environmental disaster waiting to happen” unless urgent action is taken to protect it, councillors heard.
A protection policy has been recommended for the harbour by BCP Council’s environment and place overview and scrutiny (EPOS) committee.
At the committee’s meeting this month, speakers were present from the Environment Agency, Wessex Water, Christchurch Harbour & Marine Society, Hengistbury Head Outdoor Centre, and university students who have studied the area.
The committee said a robust harbour protection policy was needed which would have: a presumption of no net deterioration; planning policies requiring new developments to achieve neutrality or better; council land management practices which reduce pesticides and fertilisers; regular monitoring and public reporting; support for wetland creation and river restoration projects; and partnership commitments with water companies, the Environment Agency and neighbouring councils.
The proposed protection policy was brought up at BCP Council’s cabinet meeting, during which Cllr Vanessa Ricketts said: “The reason that I put this motion to EPOS was not only because of the incredible support that we have on this from our residents but because this is a natural disaster in the making.
“We should be considering the impact that everything we do is going have on our harbour, because if we don’t do something now it is going to be too late and we will lose that very precious asset we have.”
Cllr Andy Hadley said those who use the water for leisure activities deserved better, while Cllr Andy Martin added: “It is clear we have a massive problem, we have an eco disaster waiting to happen.
“At best we have a harbour that is fragile and vulnerable, and at worst we have a harbour that is being poisoned.
“It is our harbour and it is our responsibility to do all the things we have talked about: lobbying, bringing people together and indeed shaming if that is merited.
“We need to lead this, it is a matter of leadership and we cannot fail our residents, communities or natural environment.”
Cllr Chris Rigby said: “The environment and place overview and scrutiny committee were unanimous in their view that something needs to be done to protect Christchurch Harbour.
“Whilst I recognise that there are limited options open to the administration, they should do everything in their power to bring about a policy and work with partners to ensure Christchurch Harbour is protected, and improved for future generations of residents and local wildlife populations.”
Cabinet is expected to send a formal response to the environment and place overview and scrutiny committee within the next two months.
