Pagham Harbour Becomes a SSSI

1975

Pagham Harbour was designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest in 1975, confirming its status as one of the most important coastal wetlands in southern England. The SSSI designation provided stronger legal protection for the harbour's habitats and the species they support. The mudflats and saltmarsh were recognised as critical feeding and roosting grounds for overwintering wading birds, including dunlin, grey plover, redshank and dark-bellied brent geese. The harbour also supports important populations of breeding little terns on the shingle banks. The SSSI status brought Pagham Harbour to national attention and strengthened the case for ongoing conservation management.