Rainham marshes saved!1 August 2002
Local campaigners have finally rescued Rainham marshes from building development. Preserving the East London site is important because it is:
- A top wildlife place
Rainham is a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and rich in biodiversity. Home of rare species like the water vole.
- One of the last marshes
Full of wildlife, these once ran all along Thames. But since 1950 most of the marshes and their fauna and flora have been destroyed.
How the marsh was won
The struggle lasted almost 20 years. But the hard work of thousands of people finally paid off. Special thanks is due to Phil Butler from Havering Friends of the Earth and Friends of Rainham Marsh for tirelessly leading local efforts.
Image: © Friends of the Earth
A bit of creativity also helped. The endangered Rainham Ratty (see photo above) did a lot to get the London Mayor - Ken Livingstone - to join the fight.
U-turn is just the beginning
At last the London Borough of Havering has accepted that people don't want local regeneration at the expense of wildlife and the environment. They have agreed not to bury the marshes in concrete drive-through restaurants and warehouses.
Now they must seize the opportunity to fullfil the educational and green tourism potential of the marshes.
Friends of the Earth says:
- This valuable site must be properly managed for wildlife and for people into the future.
Press for Change
Help save other areas rich in biodiversity:
Buy good wood - timber that doesn't damage our rare and precious habitats.
© Friends of the Earth
