THIS is the first glimpse of the plan for a new multi-million pound nature reserve in south Essex, which should open next year.

The artist’s impression is a vision of how the 667-acre RSPB wildlife haven at Bowers Marshes in Pitsea will look.

The reserve has now been rubber stamped by Basildon Council officials. Its decision to approve the scheme marks the final stages of the project, by the RSPB, to create a landscape of nature reserves along the Thames Estuary, including Canvey marshes.

The Bowers Marshes reserve will attract wading birds, and provide much-needed habitat for water voles and other wildlife.

The area will also be opened up to the public, with regular events and activities, a 5km bridleway, extensive nature trails and picnic areas.

Dave Hedges, south Essex site manager for the RSPB, said: “The granting of planning permission is a fabulous milestone to reach, and would not have been possible without the support of our partners.

“It marks the end of the beginning for the Bowers Marsh project.

“We look forward to starting the next phase of construction later this year, and inviting the first visitors to the marshes in spring 2011.”

The RSPB is also looking to build pathways between Pitsea and Benfleet stations, allowing the public real access to an area that has previously only been seen from train windows.

The marsh project has been made possible thanks to landowner Veolia Environmental Services, which has given the Bowers Marshes land to the RSPB on a peppercorn rent for 150 years.

John Meehan, programme manager for the Parklands project creating green spaces across south Essex, added: “The granting of planning permission by Basildon Council marks another significant milestone in the environmental regeneration of South Essex.”