The construction of a small harbour at Selsey is likely to generate economic opportunities for the town bringing benefits to fishing and recreational boat users while protecting the local area from sea flooding during stormy weather. It will build on the traditional small boat fishing industry in Selsey, a core economic activity for many generations of fishermen both here and in other coastal towns whose fleets of small craft typify the south coast of England, and provide a focus for tourism on the Manhood Peninsula. In addition, Chichester District Council\u2019s Economic Development would like to see the fishing industry in Selsey protected and regenerated in a similar manner achieved by ventures in Ventnor and Ryde, Isle of Wight.<\/p>\n
A harbour at Selsey will also create a new link between Bognor and Portsmouth by adding to the series of safe harbours in adjacent towns along the south coast, bringing benefits to fishing and recreational boat users. Many other benefits and economic opportunities may also be possible for the Selsey economy including fisheries, and the\u00a0Manhood Peninsula visitor economy. Visitor safety and coast protection are other important aspects of the project.<\/p>\n
However over the course of three years technical and socio-economic studies revealed that although technically feasible, the ongoing economic viability of small harbour at Selsey was as yet unproven. The Selsey Haven project is now on a 'go-slow' while projects to improve the economy and the area are, for the time being, made a priority.<\/p>\n
Between 2015 - 2017 three studies were undertaken, the results of which were reported to Chichester District Council and Selsey Town Council in early 2018.<\/p>\n