18th May 2005
People from across the Thames Gateway will be able to relax and enjoy a rare green space just a stone’s throw from Lakeside shopping centre, thanks to a £611,000 Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) grant for the conservation of the Mardyke Valley.
The funds awarded to project leaders Thames Chase on behalf of the Mardyke Valley Partnership, support a new scheme to open up the Valley for everyone to enjoy, encouraging its growth as a vibrant environment where rare plants and animals can flourish. The Valley, part of the Thames Chase Community Forest, a 40 square mile area East of London, is home to several priority species and habitats on the UK Biodiversity Action Plan, including reed beds, wet woodlands and the popular Water Vole.
Robyn Greenblatt, HLF Regional Manager for the East of England said: ‘This is fantastic news for Thurrock. The Mardyke Valley project will secure a vital natural space close to several areas of major urban development for everyone to enjoy.
‘There is a real need for protected green space in the Thames Gateway as it continues to grow. HLF is committed to conserving and promoting this rich natural and cultural heritage because it is so popular and plays a vital role in shaping the future identity of the area.’
Two officers will be employed by Thames Chase to run the project and manage a programme of publicity and education initiatives increasing awareness of activities in the valley and opportunities to get involved.
The Valley, designated as a Special Landscape Area and a Landscape of Local Importance, will be conserved by specialist contractors and local volunteers. New reedbeds will be created and Water Vole banks formed adjacent to the Mardyke River with 5.9ha of wet woodland and the restoration of almost 30 hectares of grassland also proposed. Hedgerows will be restored and fences installed to protect grazing areas.
The Valley will be opened up with a new community heritage trail, which will include signage and interpretation materials to help visitors enjoy the beautiful natural heritage surrounding them. Disabled access will also be improved and a full educational programme for all ages and abilities made available at low cost or for free, closely involving community groups so local people can get involved and learn new skills.
John Meehan, Director of Thames Chase added: ‘We are delighted that HLF is supporting this important project. The Mardyke Valley is a real hidden gem which will bloom under the conservation project and our education programme will give everyone an opportunity to get involved and enjoy the surroundings.
‘Furthermore, we are equally pleased that the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister has given an additional £800,000 to improve access to the Valley and education opportunities as part of the Green Grid South Essex.’
Thames Chase is currently recruiting for staff to begin the project.