20.
ROACH VALLEY CONSERVATION ZONE
In the south east of the county the
Roach Valley has been designated by Rochford
District Council as a conservation zone. The
object is nature conservation, aiming at the
protection of flora, fauna and the landscape
generally, and the co-ordination of all land
uses such as farming and recreation to further
this objective. The enthusiastic support
given by the planning officers and committee
involved is particularly encouraging.
The zone takes in two distinct areas:
the valley that lies south of Hockley Woods,
extending from Rayleigh town to Southend
Airport, and the area east of Rochford
extending to Ashingdon Church and Canewdon
on the north, Barling and Little Wakering to
the south and taking in the Foulness group
of islands. The boundaries are by no means
rigid and could be extended in the future.
The zone is a fine concept for an area
that has had more than its share of problems
in the past. South Essex Natural History Soc.
have already produced a basic report. They
are now embarking on a much more thorough
survey with a view to identifying the better
habitats. Field meetings are held on the 1st
Sunday of each month, starting at 10.00 from
the car park of the Central Library, Victoria
Avenue, Southend. The organisers would be
glad to receive any records or information
that may be available or to hear from any
members of the EFC who would like to help.
Records should be sent to John Skinner
who runs the Biological Records Centre at
Southend Museum, Victoria Avenue, Southend.
Enquiries to Miss Joyce MacConnell, 17
Canonsleigh Crescent, Leigh. (Southend 712248)