New scheme aims to restore marine environment

A new scheme aimed at restoring the marine environment in Sussex has been launched.

Sussex Bay brings together organisations, groups and individuals from along the Sussex coastline who want to help care for coastal habitats.

The campaign aims to protect 100 miles of coastline from Selsey to Camber Sands.

A spokesperson said it wants to "bring communities closer to their local marine environment" and "increase access to coastal nature and wildlife", including jobs in marine conservation.

Sussex Bay aims to generate a £50m fund for marine and fresh-water restoration projects by 2050, driven by a "shared a vision of a healthy ecosystem for our ocean and coastline".

The project could see kelp, oyster beds and salt marsh reintroduced along the sea bed, in an attempt to combat climate change and encourage wildlife.

It has received no public funding and is core funded by the Esmée Fairbairn Foundation, with support from Rewilding Britain.

Dean Spears, from Sussex Bay, said: "We are delighted to launch following years of collaboration amongst communities, groups, organisations and business all keen to support nature recovery in our ocean."

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