What is the National Trust project in the Blackwater Estuary?

The National Trust is sinking old Thames barges in the Blackwater Estuary to create a new island habitat for endangered birds and reduce coastal erosion.

Why were old barges sunk in the estuary?

Barges were sunk and filled with sediment to create a new landmass, forming a safe island habitat for birds and helping to protect saltmarsh from rising sea levels.

Which endangered birds will benefit from the new island habitat?

Endangered birds such as dunlin, curlew, ringed plover, and lapwing are expected to benefit from the new island habitat created from old barges.

Home / Environment / Old Barges Become New Bird Island Haven

Old Barges Become New Bird Island Haven

28 Jan

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Summary

Decommissioned barges sunk to form new island habitat.
Project aims to protect endangered birds from rising sea levels.
The initiative is described as a first of its kind in the UK.

In a pioneering initiative, the National Trust has sunk three old Thames barges in the Blackwater Estuary, Essex, to create a new island habitat for endangered birds. This project, believed to be the first of its kind in the UK, aims to protect vulnerable species such as dunlin, curlew, ringed plover, and lapwing.

The decommissioned barges, once used for industrial transport, were filled with sediment and covered to form a new landmass on the edge of Northey Island's saltmarsh. This innovative, nature-based solution is designed to combat coastal erosion caused by rising sea levels, safeguarding the existing saltmarsh habitat.

Measuring between 20 to 32 metres, the barges underwent cleaning and preparation before being towed into position. Holes were cut into their hulls, and they were filled with mud to secure them. Once fully established with gravel, the new island will sit safely above high tides, providing a vital refuge.