The Echo recently published a letter in which I raised the fact Castle Point Council had provisionally agreed to allow a BMX track within West Wood in the Hadleigh /Thundersley area.

Since it was published, many other residents have become aware of the proposal, which will destroy an area of natural wildlife habitat.

The council has sent me a copy of the relevant meeting's minutes and despite claims to the contrary, it seems the plan does not have the support of wildlife groups.

Our MP, Bob Spink, is supporting residents opposed to the proposal, but was not allowed to take part in the discussions.

Alternative sites have been suggested, but it appears the council does not wish to take notice of the residents.

I would therefore ask anyone with an interest to contact their local councillors and the MP to express their thoughts.

An action group is also coming together, ready to fight this damaging proposal. If you wish to be updated on what is happening, please e mail me and I will add you to the list of those ready to make their voices heard.

Woodland is for wildlife not BMX bikes. What next? Housing or industry? Where does the wildlife go?

Save West Wood!

Neal Warren
Rayleigh Road
Benfleet
nealwarren1@aol.com