THE long term future for a high profile wildlife site in the heart of the Thames Gateway has now been secured.

Oliver Road Lagoons in Thurrock - also known as West Thurrock Marsh - will reap the rewards thanks to a successful partnership between national land management charity, The Land Trust, property developer, Goodman and Natural England.

Partners are working closely with Buglife - the Invertebrate Conservation Trust, on the 40 hectare site to ensure the long term management of the site for the countless species it supports.

This includes establishing a breeding program for the incredibly rare distinguished jumping spider.

Jonathan Ducker, Development Manager at The Land Trust said: “The site will provide a vital refuge for endangered species and create similar conditions to the Thames Terraces.

“As these habitats are lost, Brownfield sites, like Oliver Road Lagoons are playing a crucial role for the region’s biodiversity.”

Jason Harris, Commercial Director at Goodman, added: “We are delighted to have delivered a balanced development that has enabled us to create a habitat to protect both invertebrates and birds at West Thurrock.

“Our work has ensured that this land is dedicated to wildlife forever and that ongoing funds are available to maintain the habitats of endangered species. The project is in line with Goodman’s ongoing commitment to sustainability and the environment.”

The site, the former Thurrock Power Station, contains Pulverised Fuel Ash (PFA), which has been extremely beneficial for wildlife, creating a mosaic of wildflower-rich habitats, leading to over 1,300 different species of invertebrates, bird and reptiles, of which around 50 species are classified as endangered, making this site their home.

Neil Fuller, Lead Conservation Adviser from Natural England said: “Natural England is delighted to be part of this working partnership, recognising that the project has continued to meet the challenges of delivering sustainable development and future site management for the benefit of nature conservation and people.”

The site is split in two halves by the West Thurrock Main Sewer, with the northern ash field to be the first of the two sites transferred to the Land Trust and the southern ash field transferring towards the end of the year.

There is still work to be done to the site before it is open to the public.