ALMOST 200 acres of farming land has been bought up in a Hampshire borough in an effort to protect the Solent and its wildlife.

Eastleigh Borough Council has, to date, purchased eight areas of farming land across the borough, totalling 194 acres, as the area continues to be affected by nitrate enrichment.

Nitrate enrichment is when high levels of nitrogen from human activity and agricultural sources cause the excessive growth of green algae.

This algae is then said to have a detrimental impact on protected habitats and bird species.

By buying up these areas of land, it is hoped this will offset the nitrate impact of development on the “internationally important” wildlife area.

Since April 2019, Natural England have required developers across the South of Hampshire to quantify the nitrate levels of developments in order to mitigate any increases.

A developer must demonstrate how it will ensure for at least 80 years there will be no nitrate loading from the build.

The eight areas of land that have been purchased to do this are located in Eastleigh, Bishopstoke, Horton Heath and Botley.

It is said that by removing this land from agricultural use, it can be used to offset any sudden increase in nitrates being brought on by future developments in the area.

The council can then use the area to charge developers “nitrate credits” for each of their properties as a mechanism to mitigate any future increases arising from these builds.

Land can also be used for other environmentally friendly uses.

Council Leader, Cllr Keith House said: “The Solent water environment is internationally protected and important for wildlife.

“Taking farmland out of grazing use helps achieve nutrient neutrality and by bringing it into public ownership protects it from development as green lungs between our towns and villages.

“Future use for these sites can include natural meadows and wetlands, and walking areas for residents.”

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