Wildlife Trust Urges Offshore Disposal for Brighton Marina Dredged Silt
Sussex Wildlife Trust expresses concern over proposed disposal site near Newhaven, advocating for a new offshore location.
Sussex Wildlife Trust is calling for a new offshore disposal site for sediment dredged from Brighton Marina, voicing concerns about potential plans to use an area off Newhaven. This call comes as Brighton Marina seeks a long-term solution for disposing of dredged silt, a necessity for maintaining safe access.
Maregulations previously required Brighton Marina to find a new site after a 2025 license for disposal at Rottingdean was successfully challenged by the wildlife trust. Premier Marinas, the owner of Brighton Marina, states that dredging is essential for safe navigational access and that disposal options are limited. The marina also emphasizes its economic importance, supporting approximately 150 businesses and creating around 1,200 jobs, with over eight million visitors annually.
Sussex Wildlife Trust has expressed apprehension regarding the Newhaven site, noting its proximity to the Beachy Head West Marine Conservation Zone (MCZ). While Premier Marinas suggested Newhaven as a potential alternative, the trust clarified in a social media statement that it has not promoted or endorsed this location over any other. The trust is concerned about the potential impacts on the protected area and maintains that its preferred solution is a new offshore disposal site situated far from the MCZ.
Campaigners have previously described the dredged silt as a "black, thick, slimy, petrochemically smelling sludge." However, Premier Marinas asserts that the silt is regularly sampled and confirmed to be non-harmful.
The trust highlighted that Newhaven is already used for dredge disposal by Newhaven Port, and there is currently insufficient data on the effects of additional disposal in the area. The trust stated it would evaluate any future license application based on the ecological evidence presented.
Brighton Marina intends to submit a marine license application to the Marine Management Organisation in November. If approved, maintenance dredging could resume in the spring.