Friends of Chichester Harbour
Nature Recovery Needs People
Welcome
The Friends of Chichester Harbour draws together those who are passionate about protecting, conserving and enhancing the natural environment along the stretch of the south coast that connects Hampshire and West Sussex.
Mindful of the importance and fragility of our countryside, shoreline, waters, wildlife and marine life, we support the work of Chichester Harbour Conservancy – and other like-minded community bodies also dedicated to the sustainability of the Chichester Harbour National Landscape.
A registered charity, the Friends of Chichester Harbour welcomes all ages, embracing a broad mix of harbourside pursuits, as members (Friends).
Chichester Harbour
Between south Hampshire and West Sussex to the north of the Solent and the south-west of Chichester, Chichester Harbour and its hinterland is mapped out across 9,226 acres.
Its inlets and channels flow into smaller harbours and coastal communities – Langstone, Emsworth, Chidham, Bosham and Itchenor – with the South Downs as a backdrop and Chichester Cathedral’s spire as a focal point. Managed by Chichester Harbour Conservancy, the harbour is not only a National Landscape but also a biological and geological Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) too.
It is here that cyclists, walkers, ramblers, windsurfers, kayakers, sailors, ornithologists, swimmers, day-trippers and many others with a love of the countryside, sea and nature flock all year round.
'Return of the oyster'
Europe’s largest oyster restoration project in a marina to date was launched in February 2025 when some 4,000 oysters were installed at Emsworth Yacht Harbour. As each oyster can filter up to 150 litres of water a day, the initiative is set to improve water quality and boost biodiversity within this patch of Chichester Harbour.
The Friends of Chichester Harbour secured the funding for this exciting initiative with the Coward Endowment very generously donating £6,700 for the first stage of the ‘Return of the Oyster’ programme.
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Play Your Part
From supporting education programmes, environmental research and seeking out grants for special projects to rallying participants for out-in-the-field work parties, arranging social events and harbour tours, the Friends of Chichester Harbour seeks much needed funding and volunteer support.
