A long-term project presently in its strategy development stage. The current vision for the Green Grid in South Essex is of a high quality and sustainable network of multifunctional open spaces and green links that deliver a wide range of benefits to communities and investors.Projects Fact File
Established: Green Grid Group set up 2001

Area: 180 sq miles

Location: A strip of estuary margin, upwards of 10 miles wide, stretching along the north bank of the Thames from Thurrock to Southend.

Objectives:
To enhance the environment, access and the area’s perceived image amongst the people who live, work and visit South Essex.

Planned vision components:
Over the next 3 years the Green Grid Partners are planning to commission and promote a strategy for the delivery of the Green Grid vision, as well as to initiate the following projects:
‘Greenways’ – enhanced cycleway/pedestrian links between existing communities, workplaces and green spaces.
Marshland project – restoration of degraded marshland for wildlife and people
Mardyke valley – a gateway site to South Essex with enhanced landscape and better access. Heritage and educational programmes are also to be developed
Langdon Hills – to investigate the potential for a visitor centre for the country park
Canvey Heights – enhancements to the new country park, including visitor facilities being created
Hadleigh Park – increased access and interpretation for this park and its surrounds
Coastal defences – restoration, access and interpretation projects
European Routes of Industrial Heritage – the international profile of South Essex’s industrial heritage is to be raised by interpretation, promotion and improved education facilities.

Partners: Local Authorities in Basildon, Castle Point, Rochford, Southend and Thurrock, plus Essex County Council, Countryside Agency, EEDA, English Heritage, English Nature, Essex Wildlife Trust, the Forestry Commission, RSPB, Thames Chase Community Forest, Thames Estuary Partnership and Thames Gateway South Essex Partnership

Contact:
Web site – www.tgessex.co.uk/environment/grid.html