Difference the project has made
The twin aims of the Wallasea Island project are to combat the threats from climate change and coastal flooding and to recreate the ancient wetland landscape of mudflats and saltmarsh, lagoons and pasture.
The project shows how waste material from large scale infrastructure projects can be sustainably re-used.
Spoil (waste earth) was transported by barge to Wallasea Island, saving thousands of lorry trips across London and Essex. It will provide a haven for a wonderful array of nationally and internationally important wildlife and an amazing place for everyone to enjoy.
Local flooding should be reduced by changing the the coastline – creating a larger ‘buffer’ area for high water flows to be absorbed into and reducing pressure on the sea wall.
The creation of new wetland habitats will also help to compensate for the loss of others elsewhere in the UK.
Over time the tide will deposit silt (fine sand) across the shoreline habitats which will increase food for wading birds. The RSPB has already reported a successful first breeding season.
How the conservation work continues
The Wallasea Island Wild Coast Project is a landmark conservation and engineering scheme for the 21st century on a scale never before attempted in the UK and the largest of its type in Europe.
Phase 1, Jubilee Marsh, opened in September 2015.
Although the reserve will continue to be developed until around 2021 visitors can view the progress as each phase comes to life and the marshland naturally regenerates.
The current access along the Allfleets Marsh Trail sea wall is a wonderful place to enjoy, whether walking, cycling, birdwatching, painting, photography or simply taking in the sea air.