The 12 acre site is situated to the north of the Marylands estate running roughly east to west from the main access in Plumberow Avenue close to the shops at Apex Corner, to its western boundary along the route of footpath 13.

Leased from Rochford District Council in 1997 it was granted Nature Reserve Status in 2000 protecting it in perpetuity. Described as ”a site in transition”, semi-wooded with a small open meadow area and a stream, it is laid out with a surfaced central ride and circular paths (disabled accessible)

There is a remarkably rich flora and fauna with 96 species of trees, shrubs, grasses and herbs. Of the 29 species of trees, 9 are associated with ancient woodland. More than 13 species of butterflies have been recorded in recent years, as well as an interesting variety of wood and farmland birds. Small mammals as well as amphibians and invertebrates inhabit the reserve, with sticklebacks being found in the stream.

The Parish Council’s aim is “to conserve and develop this small but diverse natural environment to the benefit and enjoyment of all sections of this and future generations of our community”.
In order to achieve its full ecological potential the Parish Council is currently working to a five year management plan drawn up by its consultant Woodlands Adviser. (Details of the plan are available from the Council).

To reduce the financial burden on the community the Parish Council has been successful in obtaining a grant of £5,000 from the Environmental Trust in 1999. More recently it has received a grant of £17,700 From the Cory Environmental Trust. The Parish Council is extremely grateful to both of these organisations for their generosity and to our Consultant for his hard work and guidance in securing this valuable support. In the near future the Parish Council will be improving the pathway from the entrance to the small railway sleeper bridge, introducing improved information and notice boards and running a series of guided walks led by our Woodlands Consultant. Information and guide leaflets are at present in preparation. Details of guided walks will be published in the near future.

The Parish Council encourages a scheme of ‘walking wardens’, whereby users of the reserve are encouraged to note and report items of interest or concern to the Clerk to the Council. If you too would like to become a warden, then contact the Clerk for this and other information on: 01702 207707.