Thurrock Council provides four types of ecological service.
New development has the potential to effect biodiversity species and habitats. The council will provide advice to applicants regarding the ecological information that should be included with their planning application and highlight any species that should be investigated on particular sites.
There are many sites of ecological importance in Thurrock. These are managed by a variety of local and national organisations including Essex Wildlife Trust, RSPB, Thames Chase and the Forestry Commission.
A number of the council's key sites are managed for their ecological value, most important is Langdon Hills Country Park. This site includes a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and some of the borough's best ancient woodlands.
Many of the wildlife sites in Thurrock provide guided walks, wildlife activities, open days and school sessions. The Thurrock Ranger Service provides these activities from Langdon Hills Country Park and can provide in classroom sessions for Thurrock Schools.
The council supports The Thurrock Biodiversity Action Group (TBAG). This is a group of representatives from local ecological organisations that meet to discuss biodiversity issues and to develop a biodiversity action plan for Thurrock.
The membership of the group includes:
Enquiries relating to protect species should be directed to English Nature Regional Office 01206 796666
Email: strategic.planning@thurrock.gov.uk
Tel: Strategic Environmental Planning 01375 652486 or 652215
Email: la21@thurrock.gov.uk
Tel: Sustainable Development Team 01375 652910
Joan Elliot Visitor Centre
Abbotts Hall Farm
Great Wigborough
Nr. Colchester
Essex CO5 7RZ
Tel: (01621) 862960
Fax: (01621) 862990
Community Officer
RSPB Rainham Marshes
Unit 9 Thurrock Commercial Centre
Juliette Way, Aveley
South Ockendon RM15 4YD
Tel: 01708 892900
Email: rainham@rspb.org.uk
01375 652652
01375 652359
