A site of “significant natural value” has been awarded £10,000 to help protect it for the next decade.

The Living Coast has been granted funding to help protect the “natural jewel” as a Unesco-recognised biosphere.

The site, which includes the South Downs as well as the coastline and rivers in Sussex, has been recognised for its sustainability since 2014.

Beccy Cooper, chairwoman of the Greater Brighton Economic Board which provided the funding and also leader of Worthing Borough Council, said: “We are pleased to be supporting the Living Coast which is truly unique and recognised by Unesco for our local natural jewels such as the South Downs and Marine Conservation Zone and our capacity to foster sustainable development.

“The work also provides an opportunity for the Unesco biosphere and the Greater Brighton Economic Board to address together some of the objectives of the GB10 Pledges on the Environment, notably by sharing knowledge of cost-efficient and replicable projects.”

The Living Coast is one of several Unesco biospheres across the UK including the Isle of Wight and Isle of Man.

The biosphere is a partnership of over 40 organisations including conservation charities and local government partners.

The partnership is led by Brighton and Hove City Council.

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More than 300,000 people live within the Living Coast area which covers nearly 400 square kilometres.

A Unesco biosphere is a designated area which takes into account land and sea areas including the River Ouse and Adur.

Martin Harris, chairman of the Living Coast, said: “By working together with our partners and local communities we have achieved real and tangible results.

“This work is having a positive impact on habitats, biodiversity, carbon reduction, climate, food production and distribution, and arts and cultural benefits for the people who live and work in Greater Brighton and wider area.”