Consultation to safeguard reserve

Skylark chicks have been spotted on the reserve

A consultation process has begun to develop a five-year plan that will shape the future of one of Europe's most important wetland sites for birds.

The consultation about Pagham Harbour Nature Reserve, in Chichester, will examine pressures facing the site and determine how they should be tackled.

It looks at new car parking charges and updating bylaws to protect wildlife from activities such as kite surfing.

West Sussex County Council said people have until 29 October to comment.

Copies of the consultation questionnaire can be obtained from libraries in the county and at the Pagham Harbour Visitor Centre.

It can also be accessed via the county council's website.

The reserve is a site of special scientific interest and home to rare lichens, plants and invertebrates.

As well as being an important wetland site for birds it also has ground-nesting birds like sky larks.