AN ambitious landscape restoration scheme is set to launch in Essex Country Parks. The million-pound scheme is being funded by the government.

The grant, from the Countryside Stewardship scheme and National Highways, will support a long-term nature recovery programme. This will enhance habitats and increase the variety of plant and animal life in the parks.

The eight country parks, managed by Essex County Council, hold local, national and international significance. This is due to the rich mixture of landscapes within them. Many of the parks are Sites of Special Scientific Interest, Special Protection Areas and Ramsar wetland sites.

The restoration project is important for rebuilding areas of land at the parks that support declining, rare and protected species of plants, insects, birds and mammals.

The project will include:

· the management of 351 hectares of woodland

· reviving 306 hectares of wood pasture, including 500 veteran trees

· improving 179 hectares of grazing marsh to benefit overwintering waders

· restoring 150 hectares of grassland

· enhancing 19 hectares of saltmarsh and shingle to aid coastal ground-nesting birds

During the past century, England has seen the loss of thousands of hectares of natural landscapes and habitats.

The rare Thames Terraced grassland found at Hadleigh Country Park has been declining since the 1930s.

This grassland is important for its unique plants and flowers which attract rare insects and pollinators. This includes the Shrill and Brown Banded Carder bees found at the site.

The parks are also working with Legacy Grazing to increase natural land management techniques.

This will include the use of native rare breed Red Poll cattle, Cheviot goats and sheep to graze the extended grassland areas. The grazing encourages the growth of flowers and helps to control the growing back of the bracken.

Councillor Mark Durham, Cabinet Member for the Arts, Heritage and Culture, said: “We are thrilled to receive the funding from the Countryside Stewardship scheme.

“From coastal marshes to ancient woodlands, the Essex Country Parks team oversee a vast and varied landscape. This significant project aims to boost biodiversity and preserve these historic landscapes and habitats for future generations to appreciate.

“I’m pleased to confirm that all work being undertaken at the Essex Country Parks is carefully planned with ecologists from our Place Services and approved by Natural England.”

Andrew Hartley, Land Management Adviser for Natural England, said: “It’s been fantastic working with ECC to develop the Countryside Stewardship scheme which will deliver some impressive environmental gains across the country parks supporting wildlife, protecting the historic environment and enhancing the landscape.”

To discover more about the Countryside Stewardship scheme or to volunteer within the Essex Country Parks visit https://www.explore-essex.com/blog/countryside-stewardships