The reservoir site lies within a shallow valley and includes approximately 160 ha of open grassland as well as woodland with hedgerows and ditches. It is home to a variety of wildlife associated with grassland and woodland. Three small unnamed water courses cross the site from north to south. Historically the middle stream was dammed to create a small woodland pond.
Follow the links to the left to find out more about the wildlife currently found on the site. You can also browse through a selection of photos of birds that will potentially be found on the site after the reservoir has been completed.
Portsmouth Water recognises the importance of taking a responsible approach to concerns regarding habitat loss at the reservoir site. Baseline ecological survey work commenced in 2005 (four years in advance of the proposed planning application for the reservoir), to ensure that all of the potential issues were identified. More detailed surveys for specific key features and species have been taking place at the site, on adjacent sites and at Langstone Harbour since 2006.
The information obtained from the survey work is being used to help determine an appropriate strategy to:
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- avoid damage where possible and minimise the impacts of the scheme;
- create new woodland areas and enhance existing woodland habitats;
- create new wetland habitats;
- create new scrub and grassland habitats; and
- create and enhance wildlife corridors
The programme for the development of the reservoir includes two years for wildlife mitigation. The site clearance and construction work will then be undertaken over an extended period of five years. This will help to allow additional time for wildlife to adapt and move naturally with the changing environment.
After the reservoir is completed, the local ecology and wildlife of the site will be enhanced through the water resource itself and marginal wetland areas created to support a diverse range of flora and fauna - in particular aquatic species and birds. There are also opportunities for the development of new wildlife habitats within the existing woodlands around the site.
Summary Table of ecological surveys since 2005 PDF1[25 KB]
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