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The Blackwater Estuary is recognised as
being of international importance for wildlife and nature conservation,
providing a range of rich and important habitats. It is also a valuable asset in terms of heritage, landscape and marine environment, as well as recreation, tourism, fishing, agriculture and riverside industry. Naturally it lies within the Essex Estuaries European Marine site. |
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Against
this background of quality and diversity, the need to manage the many
interests became a pressing issue. In 1992 Maldon District Council, linked
to English Nature's national Estuaries Initiative, launched the Blackwater
Project. The main aim was to review the Blackwater Estuary Subject Plan,
which was produced by Maldon District Council in 1980, and to co-ordinate
the preparation of an integrated Management Plan for the Estuary. In 1995,
Colchester Borough Council joined the partnership, as the decision was
taken to extend the Project Area to include the lower reaches and Mersea
Island. The Blackwater Project has also been actively assisted by a host
of bodies with management responsibilities and interests in the river
and surrounding area. Extensive formal consultation and liaison has also
taken place with many local user groups.
The Blackwater Estuary Management Plan
This Plan was formally adopted by the local authority partners and published in June 1996, in the interests of safeguarding the Blackwater as a dynamic resource for future generations to enjoy. Over sixty other organisations also signed 'Statements of Commitment' supporting the objectives of the Plan and the issues identified therein. These organisations also agreed to try and reflect these objectives in any of their activities affecting the area.
In 1999 an Issues Update Paper was produced, which was largely derived from the proceedings of the Blackwater Conference held in June 1999, and which now forms an Appendix to the Blackwater Estuary Management Plan. By bringing together over one hundred organisations with an interest in progressing and delivering the proposals in the Plan, the Conference provided the opportunity to review existing issues and to highlight any new proposals that had arisen since the publication of the Plan in 1996.
A formal review of the Blackwater Estuary Management Plan was started
in 2001, with the initial stage being the identification of the progress
that organisations have made to implement the proposals in the Plan.
Published quarterly, 'The Blackwater Matters'
newsletter keeps you up to date with what's happening on and around the
Estuary. Find out more about this fascinating resource and look out for
regular features including a 'Creature feature'; a local 'Profile' and
a guide to the host of local 'Events', from regattas and races to walks
and talks.
For more information contact:
Nicky Spurr
Blackwater Project
Maldon District Council
Princes Road
Maldon
Essex
CM9 7DL
Telephone: 01621-875748
Fax: 01621-852575
Email: Nicky.Spurr@maldon.gov.uk
Or have a look at the Maldon District Council Website: www.maldon.gov.uk