Wetlands project receives £9.6m

The partnership said it would use the funding to protect natural habitats across south Hampshire

New wetlands and nature reserve areas will be created around the Solent after £9.6m of government funding was acquired.

Proposals have been signed off by the Partnership for South Hampshire (PfSH), which brings together 12 local authorities in the region.

The aim of the partnership is to focus on environmental, cultural and economic issues in the area.

None of the sites benefitting from the funding have been announced yet. Local councils will confirm individual schemes once land purchases are completed.

The funding came from the Ministry for Housing, Communities and Local Government's Local Nutrient Mitigation Fund, which was set up to support projects that protect the local environment.

The partnership said the project would "reduce harmful farming practices and protect natural habitats across south Hampshire".

PfSH chair Keith House said: "The plans build on our previous work to address serious environmental issues without preventing opportunities for sustainable development.

"I'm delighted we're moving forward.

"There is a clear focus on projects that will give a real benefit to our local environment, create wonderful natural spaces and enable the growth our area needs."

PfSH partners include Eastleigh Borough Council, East Hampshire District Council, Fareham Borough Council, Gosport Borough Council, Hampshire County Council, Havant Borough Council, New Forest District Council, New Forest National Park, Portsmouth City Council, Southampton City Council, Test Valley Borough Council, Winchester City Council and the Solent Local Enterprise Partnership.