A NATURE reserve renowned for migrating birds could soon become a Natural World Heritage site after an official bid was launched.

Wallasea Island, in the Rochford district, is among a host of sites on the east coast of England put forward for the prestigious status.

The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) is behind the application to add the east coast to the UK’s Tentative List of World Heritage to the Department of Culture, Media and Sport.

It comes after a new report indicates the east coast is one of the world’s most important places for nature.

The RSPB reserve was put together using rubble removed during the construction of the new Crossrail Line, linking Essex directly with central and west London.

Councillors and residents have welcomed the move.

Simon Wootton, leader of Rochford Council, said: “This will raise the importance of the site, which is hugely valuable to nature and the ecology of the environment.

“I also think it will help to raise the profile of Rochford too.”

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Christine Austin, of Oxford Road, Rochford, said more habitats needed protection.

She said: “Preservation of sites like this is just wonderful and it’s so important that we stop destroying habitats. I’ve been there a few times and it’s a pleasant walk.

“I hope it goes through and helps to attracts even more wildlife. I think we could do with more protection and recognition of sites like this.”

In the spring, Wallasea Island and the rest of the east coast fills with around 200,000 migrating and breeding birds.

This number rises to around 700,000 in the autumn.

Carole Mulroney, Southend councillor responsible for the environment, added: “Anything that highlights the wonder of nature and wildlife while protecting it is a good thing and should be supported.”

Other reserves in the list to be recognised as part of the plans include Tetney Marshes in Grimsby and Havergate Island in Suffolk.