Artistic impression sketch of Solent Gateway 2. This is indicative and based on our emerging proposals.
Enhancing the environment
We are committed to ensuring that our emerging proposals for Solent Gateway 2 deliver meaningful environmental enhancements.
The design of the project will continue to develop and evolve, and the material we provide has taken account of many years of survey information. Our proposals would firstly be seeking to avoid negative impacts and then to minimise the impacts that cannot be avoided, compensating where necessary.
Our proposals will deliver environmental benefits including habitat creation and enhancements. These would be developed in close collaboration with statutory bodies such as Natural England and the Environment Agency, as well as local authorities and environmental organisations - reflecting our commitment to sensitive and responsible development. We would also look to create screening along the waterfront and around the site to help minimise visual impact.
Our proposals are being brought forward with sensitivity to the environmental designations of the area.
As shown opposite, these include the New Forest National Park, Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs), Special Protection Areas (SPAs), and Ramsar Site. We want to make sure we take account of the various landscape and environmental sensitivities affecting the site – ensuring we create meaningful opportunities for public interaction with nature, while also safeguarding and enhancing its existing value.
As an example, public access improvements may be focused within the National Park and more restricted within the SSSI.
Indicative plan of environmental considerations and protections.
What do these designations mean?
- National Park – areas or land designated and protected under the 1949 National Parks and Access to the Countryside Act.
- Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) – areas designated and given legal protection for their valuable natural features such as geology, wildlife or flora and fauna.
- Special Protection Areas (SPAs) – areas protected for the conservation of birds.
- Ramsar Site – areas of wetland designated and protected for conservation under the Ramsar Convention.
| Designation | Why are the sites designated? |
|---|---|
| Solent and Southampton Water SPA and Ramsar Site | Important for wintering waterfowl and waders, including Dark-Bellied Brent Geese. |
| Solent and Dorset Coast SPA | Protects important marine foraging areas for seabirds such as Sandwich Terns and Common Terns. |
| Dibden Bay SSSI | Noted for its invertebrate assemblages and breeding bird populations. |
| Hythe to Calshot Marshes SSSI | Comprises saltmarsh and mudflats supporting wintering waders and wildfowl. |
| New Forest National Park | To conserve the natural beauty, wildlife and cultural heritage of the Park area. |
Further information on these designations can be found at designatedsites.naturalengland.org.uk
