River Avon in 'terrible state' with high levels of phosphorous

Developers who want to build in the area must take measures to ensure the level of phosphates in the river does not increase. 

Greater levels of phosphorus, a type of chemical element, can have a negative effect on nature and the natural environment of rivers. 

This can result in an increased growth in algae which can have a knock-on effect on other plants and animals through a lack of oxygen getting into the water. 

Cllr Andy Martin (Image: Andy Martin)

Cllr Vikki Slade, leader of the council, said at a cabinet meeting last week that properties being built close to the Avon could “worsen the level of nitrogen and phosphorous levels in the water”. 

Cllr Andy Martin, ward councillor for Highcliffe and Walkford, said not everybody is aware of the “terrible state” of the River Avon. 

He said: “A lot of residents will be aware of issues in the Avon but they will not be aware of just how bad the phosphorous saturation is. 

“While this will be seen by some as a slowing down of development, perhaps almost to a standstill, I don’t think we have any choice. 

“We have to protect our natural environment, we have to make sure it doesn’t get any worse and we have to protect Christchurch Harbour and all the wildlife. 

Cllr Andy Hadley (Image: BCP Council)

Cllr Martin added 14 per cent of rivers in England can claim to have good ecological status and the UK is “one of the most nature depleted counties in the world with the lowest levels of biodiversity remaining in any G7 country”. 

He added: “Developers need to put their hands in their pockets and sort this out while the water companies sort themselves and the rivers out.” 

Cllr Mike Cox, of Christchurch Town ward, said: “As far as I'm aware, the pollution is not of Christchurch making but the people of Christchurch will be paying for it and I feel that is incredibly unfair.” 

Cllr Andy Hadley, environment portfolio holder, added: “It probably does stall developments in Christchurch because finding the mitigation to make it work is difficult and expensive for developers. 

“They might want to stick their hands in their pocket. We’ve tried every route we can to allow for continued development in Christchurch.” 

New legislation is expected to be announced in the King’s Speech later this month in cleaning up rivers which will be followed by BCP Council.