Canvey Wick

Canvey Wick is a 93.2-hectare Site of Special Scientific Interest on the south-west corner of Canvey Island in Essex. It lies between Holehaven Creek to the south and the grazing marshes of West Canvey Marsh to the north. Once a grazing marsh, it was later used for dumping dredging waste which raised the land and smothered old meadows. Plans for an oil refinery were abandoned after the 1973 oil price crisis. The reserve’s entrance is on Northwick Road. Its poor soil and variable water levels created varied habitats including dry grassland, wetland and scrubby edges. The site supports over 1,300 invertebrate species, including 30 on the UK’s red list of endangered species. Notable insects include the Canvey Island ground beetle, the five-banded weevil hunting wasp and the shrill carder bee. Surveys have recorded 1,700 common spotted orchids, 500 pyramidal orchids and 25 bee orchids. Bird species such as green woodpecker, European stonechat and Eurasian reed warbler are also present. The area is recognised as a nationally significant habitat for wildlife. Visitors find a network of paths through dry grassland, wetland and scrubby edges. The reserve connects with neighbouring nature reserves including the RSPB’s West Canvey Marshes. A sculpture of a dragonfly made from recycled materials stands near the entrance. The varied terrain offers views across the grazing marshes and Holehaven Creek. The site continues to develop as habitats mature and access improves.