Home / Environment / London Dirt Transforms Island Haven for 39,000 Birds
London Dirt Transforms Island Haven for 39,000 Birds
27 Nov
Summary
- 39,000 birds now overwinter on Wallasea island wetlands.
- Soil from Elizabeth line tunnels was used for restoration.
- The project restored a former construction site into a bird refuge.
Wallasea island in Essex has become a sanctuary for an unprecedented 39,000 birds, thanks to an innovative restoration project. The RSPB utilized three million tonnes of earth, originally sourced from tunnel excavations for London's Elizabeth line, to dramatically improve the island's wetlands.
This ambitious initiative involved raising the ground level and reintroducing tidal flows after a 400-year absence. The transported soil was instrumental in constructing new islands, lagoons, and salt marshes, creating ideal conditions for numerous bird species to feed, nest, and refuel. The wetlands also offer crucial flood protection by absorbing storm waters.
The transformation from a barren construction site to a vibrant nature reserve, now hosting species such as avocets, knot waders, grey plovers, and bar-tailed godwits, highlights the synergy between major infrastructure projects and environmental conservation.
