I am sure readers will be well aware Shoreham harbour is one of eight sites shortlisted by Southern Water as part of its search for a suitable location for a wastewater treatment centre to serve Brighton and Hove.

West Sussex County Council has been kept fully informed as a member of a specially formed joint consultative group with officers from Brighton and Hove City Council, East Sussex County Council, Lewes District Council and Adur District Council.

Southern Water is intending to carry out environmental surveys at each of the shortlisted sites and geological surveys will include the use of small drilling rigs.

Without prejudging any of the issues, I would like to assure residents in the Shoreham area who see and hear these tests taking place that it does not in any way imply the harbour site has been chosen.

These tests are to be carried out at all locations on the shortlist prior to the announcement of a preferred option and the submission of planning application during the late spring.

West Sussex County Council has responded to the consultation and informed Southern Water it regards Shoreham harbour as an inappropriate location for this development for reasons that include the conflict it would have with the intentions and proposals of the Shoreham Maritime Strategy.

-Tex Pemberton, cabinet member for strategic environmental services, West Sussex County Council