Cory's landfill site in Mucking, Essex, is to be restored as a country park in 2011. The landfill site is due to close in 2010 when restoration will start. Local residents will then be able to enjoy a 263-hectare park with an outdoor classroom and play facilities for children, nature conservation areas for protected species, bird hides and extensive network of recreational paths.
Essex Wildlife Trust will manage the park and £2.5 million has been made available by Cory Environmental for the park's future maintenance. Essex Wildlife Trust has been working in Mucking and the surrounding areas for many years.
John Hall, Director of Essex Wildlife Trust said: "This extensive high-quality multi-functional green open space will be in walking distance of local communities and can be enjoyed by all at no charge. It is a site of great wildlife importance that offers people the opportunity to experience and benefit from their natural environment".
The trust was awarded management of the site by Thurrock Thames Gateway Development Corporation after consultation will local representatives.
Rachel Ness, Head of Planning & Estates at Cory Environmental said: "This is a very important site for Cory Environmental. We already work well with the Essex Wildlife Trust at Stanford Warren Nature Reserve. We are very pleased that Essex Wildlife Trust has the opportunity to manage the site as we know it will be in safe hands".
