MAJOR construction work has been carried out to create a new nature reserve.

A joint project between the Environment Agency and the Essex Wildlife Trust has seen Fingringhoe Wick Nature Reserve extended by 22 hectares after creating a 300-metre breach in the existing seawall when the tide was at its lowest.

The tide can now enter the site and will create new habitats which will be a mixture of saltmarsh, mudflat and saline lagoon.

The new wetland is set to be attract a range of new wildlife, especially birds, such as the black-tailed godwit, lapwing and marsh harrier.

Water voles and a range of dragonflies are also due to make their homes on the site.

There will be feature nursery areas for marine fish, nest islands for little tern seabirds, a new bird hide and public footpaths.

Andy May, conservation manager for Essex Wildlife Trust, said: “The wetland will be a haven for wildlife, especially for bird species of high conservation concern, including little tern, brent goose and redshank. Fingringhoe Wick is already an important, muchloved, fantastic wild refuge.

“Now it is even better – for wildlife and people. It is a partnership project of which we are very proud.”

The newly-created saltmarsh and mudflats will help the water quality by absorbing and processing pollutants and provide a natural sea defence.

Charles Beardall, area manager for the Environment Agency, said: “We’re delighted with what our workforce has achieved at this site and in such a short amount of time.

“By creating new intertidal habitat at Fingringhoe, we are compensating for similar habitat lost elsewhere, which means we can continue to maintain other flood defences that protect people and property."