Chichester Harbour Designated an AONB

1964

In 1964, Chichester Harbour was designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, recognising the landscape, wildlife, and heritage value of the tidal harbour system that borders Emsworth to the south. The AONB designation brought planning protections that have helped to preserve the open, unspoilt character of the harbour and its shores. The Chichester Harbour Conservancy manages the area and works to balance recreational use, nature conservation, and the interests of the local community. For Emsworth, the AONB designation confirmed what residents had always known: that the harbour is a landscape of national importance and a defining feature of the town's character.