Current Work

Mardyke Valley Project
This is an exciting three-year project that started in September 2005 in the Mardyke River Valley; running from Bulphan to Purfleet, where the river enters the Thames.

The Valley is a hidden gem in Thames Chase.  It is home to water voles and other rare animals and plants.  Sweeping agricultural fields, ancient woodlands and historic structures all combine to create a unique landscape which in the past has been under-used and under-appreciated. 

The Mardyke Valley Project has two aims that will help to change this:
 
1. To enhance the heritage and conservation value of the Valley, and create greater awareness of the Valley through education programmes and community events.

2. To deliver access improvements in the Valley, including surfacing the Mardyke Way bridleway that runs its entire length.

Major funding from the Heritage Lottery Fund and the Department for Communities and Local Government has allowed the Project to go ahead.  Additional financial support has been received from organisations such as the Cleanaway Mardyke Trust, the Rail Link Countryside Initiative, and Thurrock Council. 

The Project runs free community events and activities throughout the year with something for everyone to enjoy.  To see the programme of forthcoming events please click here.

If you have any enquiries about the Project, please click either of the names below to send an email:

Katy Haines – Mardyke Valley Project Manager
Aimee Felus – Mardyke Valley Community and Education Officer