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Plans to create a new nature reserve at West Canvey Marsh are starting to take shape.

The RSPB, who bought the site from a local supermarket in 2006, are inviting locals to give their opinion on what they'd like to see at the Society's newest nature reserve.

West Canvey Marsh (Chris Durdin)

The West Canvey Marsh reserve will be 256 hectares (640 acres), making it Canvey Island's largest open green space.Ìý The site is home to a variety of wildlife.

Last year, the RSPB held the first phase of a public consultation for developing a nature reserve with public access. Ideas offered then have built into the latest proposals, and the Society is now seeking further public comments.

Nearly everyone who took part in the first public consultation was in favour of a nature reserve managed with wildlife in mind.ÌýÌý New access for people featured strongly in feedback, with many people asking for nature trails and cycle paths as well as environmental education for youth and school groups, and these ideas have been included in the RSPB’s plans.

Displays are being set up to explain the proposals that will be going in a planning application to be made to Castle Point Borough Council.Ìý

Dates for the exhibitions are:

Ìý7 – 14 January - Castle Point Library (unmanned display)Ìý
15 – 18 January - Benfleet Railway Station (unmanned display)
20 January - Oysterfleet Hotel, Canvey (manned display, 11 am to 5 pm)
22 January - Knightswick Shopping Centre (manned display)
26 – 27 January - Morrisons Supermarket, Canvey (manned display)

Anyone unable to make the events but who would like to discuss the future of the marshes with the RSPB is invited to contact the South Essex Project Team Office on 01268 559158.