The marshes attract breeding avocets, common terns, little ringed plovers and redshanks. After only a few years of management, the presence of marsh harriers at the marsh is a testament to a thriving ecosystem.
Although only 4.5 hectares in size, the marshes are a gateway to a flourishing green space network that includes Wat Tyler Country Park.
Open all year round
Accessed via uneven concrete/grass public footpath only. Width restrictions: path 960 mm; gate with 1040 mm and railway barriers with 560 mm clear opening. Railway track crossing without safety signal. All paths grass, with little change in gradient but uneven in some areas, and variable in width. Can become wet and muddy Metal kissing gate with clear opening of 990 mm (39 inches) at reserve entrance. Path leading to the saline lagoon 350 m (1148 ft). 1 m (3 ft) at its narrowest point. Crosses 720 mm wide wooden bridge with handrail on one side. Public footpath 900 m. Runs length of reserve. Second exit with kissing gate to footpath 136 with a clear opening of 1090 mm (43 inches) Permissive footpath running along reserve boundary 650 m. Can be combined with public footpath to make 1.5km (1 mile) circular route. Footpath along the sea wall on the southwest of reserve 250 m (820 ft). Accessed by a two-step stile.
Registered assistance dogs are welcome
RSPB South Essex Team
Basildon,
SS16 4SP
Vange Marsh North is a previously undeveloped 5-hectare site in South Essex consisting of areas of grassland, reedbed and drainage ditches. A partnership led by the Trust met with The Homes and Communities Agency (then English Partnerships) in June 2006 to discuss transferring freehold of the site to the Trust with a dowry to manage and maintain the marsh. This meeting was held in response to HCA considering putting the land up for auction.
It was agreed that the Trust would produce a business case to assess options for transfer. The business case showed that from a technical point of view Vange Marsh North is essential for the effective and sustainable hydrological management of the South Essex Marshes, maintaining an important buffer zone between the wetland reserve and the public. The reserve provides additional protected space for wildlife and an accessible green space for residents of nearby Basildon.
