Southend-on-Sea City Council recognised as Investor in Wildlife by Essex Wildlife Trust

July 10, 2024

Southend-on-Sea City Council has been announced as a Gold Member Investor in Wildlife by Essex Wildlife Trust, acknowledging their commitment to environmental conservation and wildlife protection.

The accolade was presented at the Belfairs Nature Discovery Centre. Councillor Lydia Hyde, cabinet member for climate, environment, and waste and Alan Richards, executive director for environment and place at the council, received the Gold Member certificate from Grant Maton of Essex Wildlife Trust.

Nature Discovery Centre is a community and education centre. It is an important gateway to the Belfairs and Daws Heath Living Landscape, in south Essex, where Essex Wildlife Trust and Southend-on-Sea City Council are working together with many partners and local people on conservation and education activities, to preserve this fantastic landscape for future generations.

Essex Wildlife Trust, the county's leading conservation charity, is dedicated to safeguarding wildlife through the management of nature reserves. The Trust collaborates with various organisations to maintain and protect these natural habitats.

Southend-on-Sea City Council plays a pivotal role in managing several key nature reserves, either directly or in partnership with other organisations. Directly managed sites include Belfairs Nature Reserve, Belfairs Wood, Edwards Hall Park and Belton Hills Local Nature Reserve. In collaboration with partners, the council also oversees Two Tree Island and Old Ranges, Shoeburyness.

Councillor Hyde said: "We are proud to have received the certificate from Essex Wildlife Trust, which confirms our Gold Member status as an Investor in Wildlife. Residents regularly tell us how important our natural spaces are to them, so it's vital we preserve this fantastic landscape for current and future generations.

"We work closely with Essex Wildlife Trust, along with many partners and local people, to collaborate on a range of innovative projects that enhance sustainability and reduce our impact on wildlife habitats and the local environment.

"I encourage everyone to come along and explore these incredible natural spaces on our doorstep and get involved in the various activities provided here that allow us to connect with nature.