The Solent, one of the UK’s busiest waterways, faces intense pressure from overuse, pollution, habitat loss, and climate change. Over 50% of its saltmarsh is gone, seagrass beds are in poor condition, and native oyster populations have declined by 95%, impacting biodiversity, carbon storage, water quality, and coastal protection. The Solent Seascape Project, led by Blue Marine and partners, aims to restore 29 hectares of key habitats and develop a long-term seascape recovery plan. Valued at £1.1 billion annually, the Solent’s ecosystems are crucial. This project will drive large-scale restoration and climate resilience through nature-based solutions.
Coastal Comeback: Overcoming Policy Challenges to Marine Restoration at Scale
Restoration policy is limiting marine restoration. This report, shows how these constraints affect delivery, and presents sector wide evidence that the current system does not operate proportionately for restoration projects. It then outlines a structured and legally grounded programme of reforms aimed at supporting ecological recovery, improving consistency and efficiency, and enabling restoration.
03 July 2026