The Sussex Newspaper - Great news for a great county!

Pagham Harbour Local Nature Reserve is a magnificent and important environmental site. It’s much loved and supported by local communities, visitors, ornithologists and visiting birds!

For years the County Council has managed the site and, thanks to dedicated staff, has done that well on 'a shoestring'. From when I was the Cabinet Member for Environment and Economy, my concern has been the growing complexities of managing such an important site, particularly bearing in mind the impact of climate change.

It needs money and investment, but with the County Council so strapped for cash, finding such money to invest becomes so much harder.

The management of the Reserve is being transferred from the County Council to the RSPB and, in my view, this partnership working is very good news. The RSPB’s track record in managing such sites and specialist knowledge, together with looking after visitors, is one of the best in the country and being a charity, they have more access to a range of funds.

Over the last couple of years there has been considerable negotiation with the RSPB, as entering into such a partnership was a first with them nationally. There was also community consultation before a decision was made to proceed.

Last Thursday I popped over to Pagham Harbour, not for a walk, but to meet up with staff, RSPB and local Members as part of the process for the transfer.

It was good to meet everyone again and yes, there was a photo call to celebrate the news. For me this is about the future of the Reserve and I look forward to working with the RSPB as one of the County Council's valued partners in the years ahead.

Best wishes,
Louise

Louise Goldsmith is leader of West Sussex County Council