Portsmouth Water has responded to customer demand to prioritise the environment by launching a biodiversity grant to enhance habitats around its operational sites.
Up to £250,000 will be available over AMP7 for projects that improve biodiversity such as coppicing woodland, wetland creation, undertaking habitat surveys and controlling non-native invasive species.
Not for profit groups and local authority departments can apply for grants that will be awarded by September each year. Portsmouth is working with Downs & Harbours Clean Water to assess the biodiversity outcomes, viability and value for money of applications.
Portsmouth chief executive Bob Taylor: “We have long been a pro-active custodian of the environment and, although at times the balance between providing an effective water supply and protecting the environment can be difficult, we always wherever possible seek to put the environment at the top of our priorities.”
He said environmental focus consistently topped customer research and feedback, which reinforced the company’s conviction in the scheme.
The fund will build on work the company has undertaken to enrich working land areas such as encouraging water vole populations.
Throughout this year Portsmouth has consulted with its customers and stakeholders ahead of applying for planning permission for Havant Thicket reservoir project to supply water to neighbouring Southern.
The scheme will include recreational space with a wetland, birdwatching areas and a visitor centre when it is completed in 2029.