Thames Estuary Path Thurrock Overview

Transcription

1 Thames Estuary Path Thurrock Overview This overview plan shows the Thurrock Thames waterfront apart from the area around London Gateway, which has had to be grouped with Canvey Island for the purposes of these plans, although it is obviously an integral and important part of Thurrock. Thurrock has a major role to play in both the development of the Thames Estuary Path and in the wider development of the Thames Gateway. Thurrock includes almost 19 miles of Thames waterfront and Thurrock is expected to deliver almost half of the new housing and new jobs planned for Thames Gateway South Essex. The waterfront within Thurrock is a complex mixture of industrial sites, housing and marshes, which brings great opportunities and challenges in terms of finding solutions that can be agreed with the numerous landowners and other bodies with an interest in the area. Development and growth in Thurrock is being led by both Thurrock Council (Unitary Authority) and Thurrock Thames Gateway Development Corporation (TTGDC). The corporation was set up to promote and deliver the sustainable regeneration and growth of Thurrock, within the context of the national policy set out in the Sustainable Communities Plan, the plans for the wider Thames Gateway sub-region, and for the eastern region as a whole. Supporting policies and strategies The Thurrock Greengrid Strategy 20 developed from the Thames Gateway South Essex Greengrid Strategy 19 and expects to achieve amongst its aims: Promote a network of footpaths, cyclepaths and green transport options that encourage healthier living Create an accessible and vibrant riverfront. TTGDC has produced a number of Masterplans that fit within the Thurrock Spatial Plan 26. The plan proposes the enhancement of the riverside footpath and cycleway along the Thames from Aveley Marshes in the west to the Mucking Marshes in the east. A number of more detailed Masterplans can be seen at including references such as that within the Purfleet Masterplan 27 To re-establish links from the centre to the waterfront and create opportunities for new housing and leisure activities associated with the River Thames. Shaping Thurrock, the Community Strategy for Thurrock 28 says We will build cycle paths to connect people to green spaces will carry out large-scale enhancements of our environment and heritage sites. Barriers to walking and cycling Levels of cycling in Thurrock are currently growing, but from a very low base. There is significant potential for big increases in walking and cycling. In terms of the Thames Estuary Path the two major ports in Thurrock are significant, with waterfront access being restricted at both the Port of Tilbury and at the new London Gateway development. Beyond these sites there is good potential for the Thames Estuary Path to follow the waterfront throughout the rest of Thurrock. There are a number of significant areas where solutions are dependent on development and other areas where there are physical barriers. Within the marshes creative solutions are needed so that the path can benefit both people and the important local ecology. Perhaps the greatest challenge within Thurrock is the need to secure access rights from the numerous landowners along the route and it is recommended that high priority is given to addressing this. Development sites Within this area there are numerous developments planned, but those with the greatest implications for the path are: Purfleet to Grays industrial and housing developments Grays Beach area and Little Thurrock Marshes Tilbury links with waterfront Tilbury Power Station and adjoining Mott land. Mucking Marshes landfill site restoration. It is important that all these sites give full recognition to the importance of the Thames Estuary Path. National Cycle Network Completion of National Cycle Route 13 through Thurrock has been a slow process as sections have developed in a piecemeal manner. The three major strategic routes through Thurrock are the Mar Dyke Valley route, which forms part of the Thames Chase Forest Circle, the Spine route following major roads through the Borough and the Thames Estuary Path itself. Linkages between these routes offer great potential for circular routes. The Tilbury-Gravesend Ferry and the Queen Elizabeth II Bridge also offer important links with NCR1 and the Thames Estuary Path in Kent.

2 Mar Dyke Mardyke Valley Route Thurrock Spine Route Port of Tilbury

3 Thames Estuary Path Section 16 Aveley Marshes and Purfleet South Essex Condition of the waterfront This includes a very good established section of route and sections of route that are likely to develop with new housing as part of the growth and development of Purfleet 27. The route on Aveley Marshes (RSPB Rainham Marshes) is a good example of how other sections of the Thames Estuary Path can be. Work has been undertaken over recent years by RSPB and partners to transform the former MoD site into a popular greenspace with a visitor centre and attractive riverside paths. Further improvements are planned as part of Parklands work and RSPB has plans to expand the visitor and wildlife experience, which should make for a more popular and attractive site. Shared path across Aveley Marshes Barriers to development In order to improve links between Purfleet and the RSPB visitor centre a more direct and attractive alignment is needed with a new bridge, which needs to be agreed with the Environment Agency and others. Plans for this are well advanced with a feasibility study complete and funding well advanced. C-D. Vopak site currently used for gas storage with no waterfront access. A riverside path is a priority if this site redevelops, but in the mean time the route can use London Road, with the addition of a flush dropped kerb for the link beside the Royal Hotel. This needs to link well with Purfleet Station. E-F. George Wimpey developments site includes agreement for a cycleway/ footway along the waterfront, with links to Purfleet Station (Planning ref 07/00989). A new road following the waterfront is also being considered and this would need to be easy to cross for good waterfront linkages. L2 Potential route linking housing edge and Mardyke L3 Existing Tank Lane and North Road link, surfaced to a good standard. L4 Indicative alignment for potential new route across the Mar Dyke. L5 Link to existing Mar Dyke Valley route and Davy Down Country Park. The path has potential to be a real catalyst for regeneration within Purfleet, but works are needed to realise this. The views of the Thames from the raised ground by the Royal Hotel are some of the best along the whole Estuary and with the route varying from Rainham Marshes through to heavy industry this promises to be a fascinating section. Elsewhere significant improvements are planned for the waterfront, but these are subject to development and at present development work in the area is on hold or has not started. Route description A-B. Existing high quality shared path; legal status to be finalised. B. A new bridge is needed over Mar Dyke. A feasibility study and initial design have been completed. B-C. Existing waterfront route. Legal status unclear. This attractive route needs to include a new link to Purfleet Heritage Museum Artists impression of proposed bridge Links and Access L1 There is scope to greatly improve the area and this path, as part of the planned Garrison Estate redevelopment. The route is open now as an interim alternative to the new bridge. George Wimpey site Key Recommendations 1. New bridge over Mar Dyke by existing sluice. 2. New link to Purfleet Heritage Museum (100m with ramps). 3. Complete high quality route and links on George Wimpey site.

4 RSPB Rainham Marshes Reserve A L5 Visitor Centre L1 Garrison Estate L4 L2 B L3 L3 Purfleet Heritage Museum Purfleet station C D E

5 Thames Estuary Path Section 17 Purfleet Industry South Essex Condition of the waterfront This area is dominated by industry and the Queen Elizabeth II Bridge, but there is waterfront access along most of the route, using public footpath 141. The alignment of this footpath has been revised over the years to accommodate jetties and the industrial uses along the waterfront resulting in a complex route, but beyond bends and twists in the path lie dramatic views of the river and the busy industrial area. groups and is already cyclable over much of the length. Steps at Foster Yeoman (E) Path widths are narrow near the QEII Bridge, but there is little scope for widening. work would be very high, as much as 1.3m. A better option may be to seek a new improved off-line crossing under the jetty. E. Remove existing steps at Foster Yeoman and replace with at grade crossing of redundant access to jetty. F-G. Surface improvements currently underway with S106 contributions. Lafarge site planning ref 05/01372 and Vopak site planning ref 06/ Links and Access View towards QEII Bridge (F) The area is fairly isolated, but as the nature of some of the riverside changes residents of the new housing and visitors from further afield will be fascinated by the blend of isolation and activity. The path has potential as a route to work for many of the staff in the various industrial sites along the waterfront. The Purfleet Masterplan 27 gives greater emphasis to walking than cycling over the remoter sections, but the route has potential for both user Barriers to development At present there are a number of blockages to completion of a good quality path: There are significant legal challenges in reaching agreement with a large number of landowners. Surfacing of the path is variable, although there are long sections where the concrete base is adequate. The whole route needs to be brought up to a good standard. Landscaping. Within a limited space there is little scope for landscaping works, but new security fencing and appropriate landscaping would help to create an attractive space. Steps at Purfleet Deep Wharf and Foster Yeoman. Purfleet Deep Wharf (D) Route description A-C. New public access along the waterfront and a link with London Road is developing at the Purfleet end of this section, as part of the George Wimpey (A to B) and Boardmills South (B to C) developments. (Planning refs 07/00989 and 07/00990 ) C-F. Surface and landscaping improvements needed along the whole length. D. Sustrans has worked with Royal Haskoning to look at technical solutions and believes that a new inline subway under the jetty would provide a good solution. However because of the potential impact on the flood defences the cost of this L1 New link needed to London Road with new bridge over railway as part of development proposals. L2 There is potential for a link from G to London Road either using or closely following the existing access road used for tunnel maintenance. Security issues would have to be addressed. Key Recommendations 1. Surfacing and landscaping of whole route and links. 2. New ramped crossing under Purfleet Deep Wharf to replace steps. 3. Remove existing steps at Foster Yeoman.

6 A L1 B C L2 D E F Cycle crossing service over bridge G

7 Thames Estuary Path Section 18 West Thurrock Marshes and South Stifford South Essex Condition of the waterfront This section of the path has been protected for public access thanks to the public footpath along the waterfront. The path links the remoter section near West Thurrock Marshes with the dense housing proposed along the Thames waterfront in Grays and falls into two clear sections west and east of Wouldham Road. It is likely to be a popular and important part of the regeneration and growth of Grays, where there are also good opportunities to strengthen links with communities away from the river. A high quality route along the waterfront at Grays should help to make this one of the busier sections of the Thames Estuary Path. View towards QEII Bridge View towards Grays Barriers to development At present the major physical barrier is in the vicinity of Procter and Gamble where there is no continuous waterfront access and the public footpath includes three sets of steps. The greatest challenges are however in working up creative solutions for the West Thurrock Marshes area, where there is a need to avoid conflict between access and the local ecology, so that there are benefits for both wildlife and people. This is discussed in further detail in the following pages. Whilst there is a more obvious alignment for the route and links beyond West Thurrock Marshes, much of this is dependent on development and could take some time. Route description A-B. Vopak Site. Path currently being upgraded by Thurrock Council (Planning ref 06/00013). B-D. Surface improvements needed (see following pages). D-E. At the Procter and Gamble Site there is no continuous access along the waterfront and the public footpath follows a narrow route with steps. The only way to continue along the waterfront would be to construct a jetty along the river s edge or await future development. There is currently a planning application for development adjacent to Procter and Gamble (ref 08/00370/TTGOUT) and this may allow for this possibility. A route behind Procter and Gamble is also a good option, but is again dependent on development. E-F. Existing path. Legal status needs to be clarified. Links and Access L1 There is potential for a new link between the waterfront and its hinterland as part of the restoration of the lagoons. Exact alignment and details need to be determined. L2 New route needed utilising two tunnels under the two railway lines. Signalised crossing of London Road needed at The Chase. L3 New route along rail corridor to link Chafford Hundred Station and Lakeside with the waterfront. L4 New bridge needed over railway for this link, as part of development. L5 Link to existing shared path beside Devonshire Road needs upgraded route along Wouldham Road and over bridge. Tunnel under railway (L2) Key Recommendations 1. Develop a creative solution for the route at West Thurrock Marshes in conjunction with all interested parties. 2. Ensure that high quality links are developed as part of the proposals including three new crossings of the railway. 3. Complete route in vicinity of Procter & Gamble site as part of development proposals.

8 L3 L2 L5 Grays L4 E F D L1 C St Clement s Church A B

9 Thames Estuary Path West Thurrock Lagoon and Marshes - South Essex West Thurrock Lagoon and Marshes is an important wildlife site (SSSI) in poor condition. The lagoon is on the land side of the flood defences, the Marshes are on the river side of the flood defences. A major issue in this area is the question of how to protect and improve this important wildlife site, given the inevitable increase in human activity in the area as a result of improvements to the Thames Estuary Path and the increasing local population. At the same time the benefits for people of access to and enjoyment of attractive green space need to be maximised. In this regard what will be important will be where people (and dogs) go rather than where they are supposed to go. When it comes to disturbance cyclists are generally considered to have minimal impact in that their behaviour is fairly predictable they all tend to stick to the same route and they are rarely accompanied by dogs. The route that cyclists follow will be dependent on quality, convenience and attractiveness of the route. If there is one clear winner in these stakes the vast majority will use it. The greatest threat to wildlife and particularly ground nesting birds is likely to come from people and dogs straying from the path and on to the Marshes. The most detailed research on this at present is believed to be Report to Devon County Council prepared by J D Goss-Custard 29. Following this detailed work, construction of the route in the Exe Estuary has taken place with some mitigation measures and the same is likely to be needed in this case. This will also need to recognise the great opportunities this area provides as an attractive open-space close to a major population centre. Marshes Lagoon West Thurrock Lagoon and Marshes SSSI 1. Concrete apron at foot of flood defences 2. Existing path on top of flood bank 3. Existing path at foot of flood bank near Lagoon

10 Thames Estuary Path West Thurrock Lagoon and Marshes South Essex There are a number of options for access along the riverfront and the final route may need to use a combination of these, but choices are restricted by the limited number of locations where it is possible to cross the flood defences at present. The three main choices for path location are shown opposite and the major issues with each are indicated in the table adjacent: Path location Advantages Disadvantages 1. Concrete apron at foot of flood defences Good views over marshes and river. Cheap relatively simple solution. Users screened by flood defences behind. 2. On top of flood defences Good views in all directions. Reasonable base for surfacing. 3. At foot of flood defences on land side and near Lagoon May minimise disturbance Concern about disturbance of ground nesting birds on Marshes. Possible flooding at high tide. Narrow path. Environment Agency not keen on surfacing. Possible bird disturbance. Path may be affected by restoration of the lagoons and flooding. People may prefer to continue using alternative routes due to restricted views. Route at RSPB Rainham Marshes Site, which would be a good option for the West Thurrock Marshes area Recommendations Our current recommendation is for a sealed surface on top of the flood defences as at Rainham Marshes, but this is subject to the views of key partners and any further studies needed. This option appears to provide a route that people will want to use whilst minimising disturbance. This is on the understanding that path users and dogs straying from the concrete apron have potential to cause significant disturbance to wildlife. If people are to be deterred from using the existing footpath (concrete apron) the new route will need to be to a very high standard and a much more attractive choice than the route on the concrete apron. The possibility of diverting the existing right of way from this alignment should also be considered. In order to deliver the route on the top of the floodbank, Environment Agency and landowner s consent will be needed. At present indications are that this may be difficult to achieve along the whole route and there will need to be a firm commitment from Thurrock Council to address this.

11 Thames Estuary Path Section 19 Grays South Essex Condition of the waterfront This section of the path includes two very different stretches one with enormous potential as a waterfront path and another section where the route must leave the waterfront to bypass Tilbury Docks. There is no public access at Tilbury Docks now or in the foreseeable future. This is a very active stretch of the river, with pleasure boats and the major international docks at Tilbury. Grays waterfront has the potential to be the busiest section in Thurrock, with wide promenade type paths showcasing the modern housing and the heritage of the area. Indeed a waterfront path is gradually emerging as a result of developments and this should link with ambitious plans for a new marina. Grays waterfront Barriers to development There are few obvious barriers to completing a high quality route along Grays waterfront and the link to the town centre. There are doubts over the legal status of the existing route and whilst legal and financial constraints need to be overcome, this does not appear insurmountable. The challenges involved in developing a high quality route around Tilbury Docks are far greater. The preferred route will need to be delivered as part of major development, but the route does not feature prominently in Little Thurrock Marshes development plans. The route will need to cross the railway line and the A1098. A good quality bridge over the railway line linking with Elm Road Open Space is therefore a priority, allowing for pedestrians and cyclists throughout. Riverside path by the Wharf Pub Route description The Grays Masterplan 30 puts the waterfront at the heart of regeneration of this part of Thurrock. A-B. Existing high quality path. B. There is a short break in the route by the Wharf Pub. Construct new path and complete legal agreement. B-C. Recent developments have delivered this section C-D. Whilst there is existing riverside access by Grays Beach this section is subject to major change as part of redevelopment and until then an alternative route is needed utilising the existing road bridge over the railway (Bridge Road). D. New cycle and pedestrian bridge needed over the railway. E. New bridge needed over drain. Good links are needed to link the new railway bridge and the new bridge over the stream with nearby communities and Thurrock Parkway businesses. E-F. Route on Little Thurrock Marshes along the edge of the potential development site to provide a green corridor linking with businesses. F. Toucan crossing of A1098 trunk road. This would need to be a Highways Agency scheme. F-G. Upgrade existing path beside road to shared use. E-G. There are various options for linking with and through development sites and existing businesses. G. Route needed under A1098, where there is space for a path across private land. At present the private landowner is believed to be opposed. Links and Access L1 Important link with Grays High Street and Grays Station. This needs to be formalised as a walking and cycling route. L2 On road link with town L3 On road link through town. L4 Link with Churchill Road L5 Link along A1098 corridor with Dock Road. Key Recommendations 1. Completion of route on Grays waterfront to Grays Beach including link with High Street. Minor works and legal issues. 2. Agree route at Little Thurrock Marshes including all links. 3. Toucan crossing of A1098 with upgraded paths. 4. High quality paths and bridges to be delivered through development opportunities.

12 Grays station L3 ` L1 L4 L5 A B L2 E C D F G

13 Thames Estuary Path Section 20 Tilbury South Essex Condition of the waterfront This section of the path is away from the waterfront over a significant length, because a route is not possible through Tilbury Docks. The section of route that does follow the waterfront is generally of high quality with a fascinating local heritage, including the important Tilbury Gravesend ferry, the World s End pub and Tilbury Fort. A good route through Tilbury can help facilitate the growth and regeneration of the town and link it better with its riverside heritage. streetscape which would help to greatly improve the route and these works are likely to be dependant on local agreement and funding. Around Tilbury Fort and Tilbury Power Station a number of options and links are indicated and these are important given that the riverside path can flood at high tide. Security issues and landowners agreement could be major issues for these options. The legal status of the existing route needs confirming this could present difficulties if not resolved. C-D. Shared use path needed following road to river to link with the existing route that extends to the Tilbury Gravesend ferry terminal. This is a key link on the Thames Estuary Path, although the ferry does not currently run on Sundays. D-E. Existing attractive riverside path. E-F. Existing concrete seawall suitable for shared use. Legal status needs to be checked. Links and Access L1 Potential route via Dock Road would be more direct than the proposed route but would miss out the town centre. L2 Route via existing switchback bridge over railway. This provides an acceptable interim alternative route to a footbridge at point B. L3 Widen existing footway to establish shared use path to Tilbury Station. L4 Potential Chadwell St Mary link could form part of circular route. L5 Potential link following drain and existing closed road. L6 Potential link associated with development no path at present. L7 Indicative alignment for route needed to link with Tilbury Fort and around Tilbury Power Station. Tilbury Fort Key Recommendations Dock Road, Tilbury Barriers to development The major barrier for the final route is the need for a new bridge over the railway, which is linked with possible housing and other development. A new bridge is vital for good links between Tilbury and any such development, but there is a reasonable alternative that takes a less direct route. Within Tilbury there are ambitious plans to improve the Route description A-B. Improvements to the streetscape are vital if this is to be an attractive route and is likely to need major works. B. New bridge over railway for walkers and cyclists needed here, as part of future development scheme. B-C. Shared use path needed across open space currently used for car storage, but potential development site. Tilbury waterfront at World s End pub 1. Completion of high quality route through Tilbury with much enhanced streetscape. 2. New bridge over railway for walkers and cyclists as part of comprehensive redevelopment of area south of railway. 3. Upgrade surface in the vicinity of Tilbury Fort.

14 Tilbury station A L4 Tilbury L3 L1 L7 L2 B L6 C L5 Tilbury Gravesend Ferry D E F

15 Thames Estuary Path Section 21 Two Forts Way West South Essex Condition of the waterfront This section of the Thames Estuary Path follows the route of an existing public footpath which threads its way past Tilbury Power Station, across flood defences and out into some remote countryside. It has the potential to be one of the most memorable and surprising sections of the waterfront path, clearly marked out by the two dramatic forts that protected this part of the estuary. This path has already been given its own local name and could be a significant attraction in its own right. Much of the existing public footpath is close to the river without the protection of flood defences and is more prone to flooding at high tide than any other part of the path in South Essex and this gives some major challenges. Completion of the route has been proposed as a Parklands priority scheme. Barriers to development The greatest challenges are in the vicinity of Tilbury Power Station, which is expected to undergo major development soon. There are steps on the public footpath route at the point where it crosses the flood defences and there are sections of the path that are impassable at high tide. Nevertheless, most of the time the path has lots of appeal and is worth protecting. For the Thames Estuary Path an alignment inside the flood defences appears to be the best option in the vicinity of Tilbury Power Station but this is only going to be possible if the operational and security requirements of Tilbury Power Station and the adjoining sewage works can be addressed. For adjoining land agreement needs to be finalised for high quality routes and links. The major barriers are thus in reaching agreement with landowners. carefully detailed so as to have no impact on flood defences. The cost has been estimated at about 400k. The existing riverside path is mostly on the concrete apron, but is also unsurfaced in part and needs surfacing throughout. The biggest challenge is in dealing with the regular influx of tidal debris and the fact that the path is below the high tide mark in places. The erection of barriers should help with tidal debris, but regular cleaning is also needed. B-C: Path inside flood defences. In places there is plenty of space for a path inside the flood defences, but there are a number of difficult locations and security issues that would need to be overcome and this looks difficult to achieve at present. B-C: Behind power station. This will need to be developed in agreement with a number of landowners including English Heritage and Tilbury Power Station addressing security and any other concerns. Existing path View towards power station jetty Links and Access L1 Shared use path needed to link with Tilbury and potential development site. Key Recommendations Green space inside flood defences 1. Feasibility work on the options at Tilbury Power Station, including an inland alternative route. Waterfront at Tilbury Power Station showing high tide mark. Route description A-B. Existing crushed stone (seadek) path needs to be upgraded to a sealed surface. For B-C, there are three clear options and each has advantages and disadvantages. B-C: Path along the concrete apron at the foot of the flood defences. A new ramped bridge is needed at Bill Meroy Creek, which needs to be There is potential to combine the path proposals on land surrounding Tilbury Fort with freshwater habitat creation. This would improve the route by enhancing the landscape. C-D. Land currently has planning permission to import fill, raise ground level and reinstate the public footpath (Mott land), but efforts are needed to ensure a suitable surface and appropriate access rights. 2. Give priority to ensuring a suitable high quality route with rights for cyclists and walkers on the Mott development land.

16 Tilbury L1 D B C A

17 Thames Estuary Path Section 22 Two Forts Way East South Essex Condition of the waterfront This section of the Thames Estuary Path follows the completed section of the Two Forts Way and links with Coalhouse Fort. Much of the route in this area was surfaced some years ago, but the route has not been completed and hence it has not reached anything like its potential. Given the attraction of Coalhouse Fort and the riverside setting the potential is large. Existing path B to C Route description A-B. Land currently has planning permission to import fill, raise ground level and reinstate the public footpath (Mott land), but efforts and funding are needed to ensure a suitable surface and appropriate access rights. determined, but there are existing worn tracks. E. Works needed to cross flood defences at a suitable gradient (1:20 preferred). E-F. New shared use path needed along open land inside flood defences. The landowner does not appear to be supportive, due to security concerns and these need to be addressed. The concrete apron outside the flood defences has been investigated, but this is narrow and in a more sensitive location. route on footway for pedestrians for generally quiet village road. Access to East Tilbury station. L3 Important short link needed to complete circular route around fort. Key Recommendations 1. Give priority to ensuring a suitable high quality route with rights for cyclists and walkers on the Mott development land. 2. Ensure legal status of existing paths includes long term rights for cyclists and walkers. 3. Develop new circular route around Coalhouse Fort. Opening of the Two Forts Way, 2003 Barriers to development There are few physical barriers for this section, which should be much easier to complete than Two Forts Way West. There are still issues to resolve with landowners so that rights for walkers and cyclists are formalised. The major barriers are thus in reaching agreement with landowners. B-C. Existing path adjacent to former landfill site (Cory land) would benefit from landscaping works, legal status needs to be clarified. C-D. Route along existing flood bank (Mott land) is restricted in width due to the narrow flood bank, but with regular maintenance of the verges this is an attractive and useful route. There is some cracking of the surface and the path would benefit from some minor repairs and upgrading such as surface dressing. Legal status needs to be clarified. D-E. New shared use path on waterfront - exact route to be Existing path C to D Links and Access There is little scope for links apart from near Coalhouse Fort. L1 Existing route to Coalhouse Fort no works required, apart from signing. L2 On road route for cyclists and

18 F L2 L3 E L1 D C B A

19 Thames Estuary Path Section 23 East Tilbury Marshes South Essex Condition of the waterfront This section follows the flood defences through an area with relatively limited access at present, but which offers great potential as a circular route linking East Tilbury with Coalhouse Fort. The concrete flood defences have a concrete apron which generally provides a good surface outside the flood defences, but this is narrow with a step drop down to ground level and this is within an environmentally sensitive area. Inside the flood defences there is more space and this provides the obvious route for the path. Views of the river are restricted but this section of route adjoins other sections where views are much more open. Barriers to development There are few physical barriers for a route inside the flood defences. There is plenty of space to establish a good shared use path and a generally firm base for a path. A route using the concrete apron may need less construction but is likely to be more complicated than a brand new path. Widening of the concrete apron would involve significant technical and environmental issues. The major barriers are likely to be in reaching agreement with the landowner, who is known to have major concerns about motorised access. landscaping, access controls and fencing as needed. Grass strip behind flood defences. Links and Access At present there is little scope for links across the sand and gravel pit, but there are parallel links along the road corridor that are worth pursuing. Key Recommendations 1. Agree route with landowner to allow construction of high quality shared use path along green strip behind flood defences. View of riverside path Flood defences Route Description A-B. For this section the recommended approach is construction of a sealed surface shared use path on the existing worn path at the foot of the flood defences, away from the river, with L1 Route following road - initially on road route for cyclists through quiet village, then upgrade existing path beside road to shared use, then continue route into East Tilbury with shared use path on edge of playing field and park and works along the public road. L2 Route following Coal Road (bridleway) for link with Chadwell St Mary needs major surfacing works and safe crossing of railway. Currently the bridleway crosses the railway at-grade and a new bridge is likely to be needed.

20 B L2 L1 A

21 Thames Estuary Path Section 24 Thurrock Thameside Nature Park South South Essex Condition of the waterfront This section follows the waterfront through an area with no sea wall. The land is currently inaccessible since it is still operating as a landfill site. However on completion of landfill works in a few years the site will be prepared for public access as the Thurrock Thameside Nature Park to be managed by Essex Wildlife Trust (planning ref 06/00663/TTGCND). Works on the Thurrock Thameside Nature Park are proposed as part of a Parklands scheme. Although it is not possible to survey the site at present there appears to be plenty of scope for the path to follow the waterfront at a location to suit the future use of the site. This location should be one to make the most of the impressive views across the river. View towards current landfill site Barriers to development The major barrier to route development at present is the completion of the landfill operations to allow the site and waterfront to be opened to public access. A potential major barrier is the proposal by Essex Wildlife Trust that the site will be locked shut at night, although this may be difficult given existing rights of way. In order to overcome this links around the site need to be considered as an integral part of the project. In any case good links with East Tilbury and Linford are essential if the site is to flourish. There is an existing public footpath linking the waterfront with East Tilbury but at the time of visit it was heavily overgrown and virtually impassable, surfacing was poor and barriers in places made access very difficult. It is likely that a history of problems with illegal motorbike use has resulted in the restrictive barriers and the neglect of the path. For any link with Linford and around the site that involves crossing the railway line the level crossing by East Tilbury Station and traffic on the local roads are a major barrier, due mainly to the restricted space and the high volume of traffic, including HGVs. Route description A-B. Construct new shared use sealed surface path as integral part of Thurrock Thameside Nature Park with good views across river exact position to suit Wildlife Trust plans and as agreed within the planning process. Links and Access Good links with Linford and East Tilbury are essential and there should be good scope for links and circular routes on the Nature Park. L1 Upgrade existing path following outside of existing landfill site boundary. Cut back vegetation and resurface as necessary removing highly restrictive barriers, linking with East Tilbury and East Tilbury Station. L2 A good link between Walton Hall Farm Museum and Mucking Marshes would be a valuable link but a safe crossing of the railway on the more direct route looks to be a major challenge and would need a new bridge. L3 Route following road for direct link with Coalhouse Fort and circular route. L4 This road serves as a potential route around the park when closed and also acts as an important route to school for local children. The road has the appearance of a country lane but suffers from heavy traffic. It would benefit from major traffic restraint when the landfill site closes and serious consideration should be given to closing the road to through traffic and classifying it as a quiet lane. The route past East Tilbury Station is also challenging and would need major traffic calming. L5 Potential route beside the railway line avoiding busy roads between East Tilbury and Stanford-le-Hope. Key Recommendations 1. Construct new shared use sealed surface path as integral part of Thurrock Thameside Nature Park with good views across river exact position to suit Wildlife Trust plans. 2. Upgrade existing link with East Tilbury Station. 3. Undertake major traffic calming works to improve on-road links and to coincide with completion of landfill operations.

22 B L4 L5 L2 A East Tilbury station L1 East Tilbury L3

23 Thames Estuary Path Section 25 Thurrock Thameside Nature Park North South Essex Condition of the waterfront This section of the Thames Estuary Path follows the waterfront through an area that is strongly influenced by the Mucking landfill site and the London Gateway development. This area has been difficult to access, but on completion of landfill works the site will be extended into an adjoining area and prepared for public access as the Thurrock Thameside Nature Park to be managed by Essex Wildlife Trust. This provides a tremendous opportunity to reconnect Stanford-le- Hope with its waterfront. To the north of Mucking Creek a managed re-alignment of the flood defences is planned as part of the compensation habitat for the London Gateway development and this provides a good opportunity for a route on the new floodbank. The path will not be able to continue along the waterfront due to the London Gateway development and Coryton oil refinery, but there should be opportunities to include an inland route within that development. View to west from level crossing Barriers to development The major barriers at present are completion of the landfill operations, the need to cross Mucking Creek, the London Gateway railway line and the London Gateway major development. Links around the site therefore need to be considered as an integral part of the project. In any case good links with Stanford-le-Hope and Linford are essential if the site is to flourish. For many links with the waterfront traffic on the local roads is a major barrier. The level crossing at B needs upgrading for increased public usage and given that the line will become busier as the London Gateway development progresses. A new road bridge is likely at this location to provide new access to Stanhope Industrial area and this needs to allow for the Thames Estuary Path and the existing rights of way. Route description A. New bridge needed over Mucking Creek. A-B. New shared use path along route to be agreed as part of managed realignment of flood defences. B-C. A new bridge is needed over the railway in this area and given proposals for a new road bridge this would also need to accommodate the bridleway that crosses the railway in this vicinity. The ramps and links need to be carefully detailed. C. Indicative route through London Gateway site. Links and Access Good links with Linford and Stanfordle-Hope are essential and there should be good scope for links and circular routes on the nature park. L1 Link through Nature Park to suit operations and for link with Mucking. L2 Existing road past The Warren very low speeds are recommended for any motor traffic to ensure a safe attractive route for walkers, cyclists and horse riders. The road subway under the railway is not currently an attractive option, due to the HGV traffic and the width of the structure and the intention to remove this traffic and divert it to the new road bridge at C is welcome. L3 Link along track and minor road with Stanford-le-Hope and Corringham. Existing level crossing L4 Road to Linford as described on previous page (section 24). L5 Potential traffic free link to East Tilbury. L6 Existing off-road link with St Cleres school. L7 Link with Stanford-le-Hope using existing bridge over railway. Key Recommendations 1. New bridge at Mucking Creek 2. New safe crossing of railway. 3. Develop quality links with Stanford-le-Hope to improve riverside access for the local population.

24 Stanford-le-Hope L3 L6 L7 C L2 B L5 L1 A L4