Whilst Natural England supports the intention of Policy S31 in minimising the impact of waste water on catchments, we concur with the Habitats Regulations Assessment (HRA) that protective policies are needed to avoid an adverse effect from water quality impacts on the integrity on Chichester Harbour both alone and in combination (and in combination for Langstone Harbour). In order to fulfil these requirements our view is that some redrafting is required.

At this time the evidence base for Pagham harbour water quality impacts is further behind that of Chichester and the overarching policy is sufficient to protect this harbour. However Natural England wish CDC to note that investigations into Pagham harbour water quality are planned with completion by 2022. We will therefore, update CDC on these investigations and any implications for their planning policies to feed into the next Plan review.

Further detail on water quality impacts in relation to Chichester (and Pagham) Harbour is set out in our response to the HRA.