Stodmarsh Catchment Nutrient Mitigation Strategy
About the Stodmarsh Catchment
The Stodmarsh Catchment is an area that includes the Stodmarsh National Nature Reserve. This area is being damaged because too much nitrogen and phosphorus are getting into the water. These chemicals come from wastewater, rain running off towns, and farming.
In 2020, Natural England said any new homes built in this area must make sure they do not add extra pollution. This is called nutrient neutrality. If new homes do not meet this rule, they cannot get planning permission.
The affected area includes:
- Ashford
- Canterbury
- Folkestone and Hythe
- Maidstone
- Swale.
Since the rule was introduced, more than 7,000 new homes have been delayed. By 2040, up to 30,000 homes could be affected.
Water companies have been told they must improve their wastewater treatment sites by 2030 to help reduce pollution. These upgrades will help, but not enough for Natural England to change the rules yet.
In 2024, the government gave us money from their Local Nutrient Mitigation Fund. With this money, we will fund projects that reduce pollution and allow more homes to be built.
For information about how to apply for money from the Local Nutrient Mitigation Fund, email flood@kent.gov.uk .
Our strategy
Our Stodmarsh Catchment Nutrient Mitigation Strategy explains how we will:
- use the money
- create projects
- help to solve the nutrient problem.
It also allows room for new ideas and different types of solutions.
Read the Stodmarsh Catchment Nutrient Mitigation Strategy (PDF, 967.6 KB).