The Land Restoration Trust has discovered that brownfield sites, such as old industrial wasteland, are home to some endangered species of plant and animal. Skylarks, lapwings and water voles are amongst the many species that can occur on brownfield sites!
Canvey Wick, (which is due to be bought by the Trust) is home to a staggering 30 Red Data Book species, plus...an amazing three species which were previously thought to be extinct.
One reason taht these rare species like brownfield sites is the informality of the design. Another is that sites have grown over time and tend to be more varied in layout than formal green spaces - with shallow pools (ideal for a multitude of species), diverse flora and low fertility- all prerequisites for diversity in the natural world. Management has been informal and the result - a diverse ecosystem worth safeguarding and emulating.
The Trust tries to balance the needs of people (recreation, relaxation spaces..) with those of the natural world- so that people can see and understand nature and its uniqueness.
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