Action for Christchurch Harbour and Waterways

See the information below about this event.

Residents who care about the future of Christchurch Harbour are being invited to a public meeting next month to discuss how the area's treasured waterways can be protected for generations to come.

Christchurch Harbour is one of the region's most important natural environments, supporting wildlife, recreation, tourism and local livelihoods. But concerns about water quality, pollution and biodiversity have prompted calls for action from residents, community groups and local councillors.

The Action for Christchurch Harbour and Waterways event, hosted by BCP Council, will take place at the Regent Centre on Tuesday 1 September and is free for anyone to attend.

The public meeting will provide an opportunity for residents to hear directly from the organisations involved in protecting and managing local waterways, ask questions and take part in the conversation about the harbour's future.

BCP Council's Environment and Place Overview and Scrutiny Committee recently recommended that work should be accelerated on developing a dedicated protection policy for Christchurch Harbour, similar to the approach already in place for Poole Harbour.

The meeting will be chaired by Commons Ward Councillor Vanessa Ricketts, who has championed the issue through petitions to Full Council and proposals to the council's Overview and Scrutiny Committee.

Opening remarks from Town Centre ward Cllr Mike Cox, Deputy Leader of BCP Council, will be followed by presentations and a panel Q&A featuring representatives from:

• Wessex Water
• Environment Agency
• Natural England
• National Farmers Union
• Stour Valley Catchment Partnership

The panel will also include:

• Martin Stewart, Chair of Christchurch Harbour and Marine Society
• Richard Stride, Southern Inshore Fisheries and Conservation Authority
• Cllr Andy Hadley, BCP Council Cabinet Member with responsibility for environmental matters

Residents will have the opportunity to put questions directly to the panel during the open Q&A session.

Cllr Mike Cox, Deputy Leader of BCP Council, said: “Christchurch Harbour is one of our area's most important natural assets. It's a place that supports wildlife, attracts visitors and is enjoyed every day by residents, visitors and local communities."

“Protecting and improving the health of the Harbour is a priority shared by many organisations, and the event aims to bring together those with a role to play in finding solutions, alongside the people who care most about the area."

“Whilst the council has little power itself over water quality, we are good at bringing people and organisations together. Getting the concerned local community in a room will be an important step towards achieving a robust harbour protection in place for Christchurch.”

The event is open to all and there is no need to book. Entry will be on a first-come, first-served basis. The Regent Centre has seating for more than 500 people.

Details