We are thrilled to announce the official launch of Southwick Reef, a pioneering habitat enhancement project designed to support marine biodiversity, research and community engagement along the Harbour Arm.
The project, is a multi-organisation collaboration between Adur and Worthing Councils, Brighton and Hove City Council, Sussex Bay, Sussex Dolphin Project and University of Brighton designed to transform the marine environment within the area.
In advance of construction, two ecological baseline studies were undertaken in 2025 to establish a clear picture of biodiversity at the site. Surveys carried out with the Shoresearch team from Sussex Wildlife Trust recorded over 90 different species across rock armour, sheet piling and beach habitats.
The project assesses both ecological and societal benefits and is supported by a full-time PhD researcher from the University of Brighton. Research will monitor biodiversity above and below the tide line using camera monitoring, eDNA sampling and traditional surveying techniques, while also exploring public perceptions and the social value of marine enhancements.
Tom Willis, Chief Executive at Shoreham Port commented, “We are thrilled to have brought together such an inspiring group of local organisations to deliver this collaborative project. Southwick Reef underscores our shared ambition to enhance the marine environment whilst fostering greater community engagement in conservation and sustainability. We hope that Southwick Reef provides a further reason for people to visit the area, an attraction for parents and children to explore and a place to get students engaged in marine conservation”.
Southwick Reef at Shoreham Port incorporates three distinct habitat enhancement features: Vertipools, Reef Cubes, and habitat panels. Together, these elements are designed to increase ecological complexity and support marine biodiversity along the Harbour Arm.
“We hope this will be a great learning experience that influences future marine construction to boost biodiversity,.” says Brian Rousell, Shoreham Port’s Director of Engineering and IT. “The learning from this project will have repercussions for generations and can inspire everyone to understand and enhance our marine environment. There’s no reason why industry and wildlife can’t coexist for the benefit of all.”
The reef creates new opportunities for people to engage with the coast through education, school visits, guided tours and future citizen science initiatives, encouraging a deeper connection with the marine environment.
Over 400 members of the public are pre-registered to attend the launch, alongside civic leaders, academic partners, media and key stakeholders. The launch forms part of Shoreham Port’s wider sustainability programme and aligns with Sustainability Week, taking place during the week commencing 22 June 2026, highlighting the Port’s long-term commitment to environmental responsibility, research and community benefit.
Categories: Community, Events, Sustainability, Announcements