DEVELOPMENTS could be seen going up after millions were secured to tackle environmental issues in the region.

It comes after a wildlife trust proposed a scheme to help tackle nitrate pollution in the Solent.

In a report to the Partnership for South Hampshire Joint Committee, plans for 1,038 homes were “significantly backlogged” because of “high levels” of nitrogen and phosphorus in the Solent.

Daily Echo:

It was revealed nitrogen from housing wastewater and agricultural sources accelerated the growth of algae, which is believed to be damaging protected wildlife habitats and bird species around the straight that separates the Isle of Wight and England.

But following Natural England raising an issue with nitrates entering the Solent, some councils were unable to grant planning permission for new developments - but now funding from the Solent Local Enterprise Partnership is set to address the issue.

The money will be used to buy agricultural land, one of the main sources of nitrates, and change its use to reduce the environmental impact.

The project is being co-ordinated through the Partnership for South Hampshire (PfSH), which brings local councils and other partners together with a focus on sustainable growth in the area.

Daily Echo:

Cllr Seán Woodward, chairman of PfSH, said: “I’m very pleased we’ve been able to find a way to address this serious environmental issue without preventing opportunities for sustainable developments within our region."