Romford Recorder: RSPB Rainham Marshes cuts - Andrew Rosindell quizzes government
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The government has been quizzed on what help Rainham Marshes will get as it deals with the impact of major cutbacks.
Romford MP Andrew Rosindell has tabled a written question to the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, asking what support the department will be providing to the RSPB nature reserve, financial or otherwise.
The question was due for an answer on January 15, but the department has not yet responded.
It comes as the reserve undergoes major cuts, including the closure of its shop and cafe, and the loss of its education programme in its current format.
Mr Rosindell said he was "very concerned" to hear about the closure of some of Rainham Marshes' facilities, calling the site a "popular local attraction" that he has been "fortunate to visit on many occasions".
He told the Recorder: "Not only does it provide a much-needed sanctuary for birds and other wildlife, but it is a unique educational facility where conservation can be demonstrated in action to local schoolchildren and interest groups.
"I would like to reassure the local community that Rainham Marshes has my full support, I will certainly continue to work with the RSPB going forward to safeguard the future of this important site."
Mr Rosindell added that he met with RSPB representatives this week to raise his concerns over "the future of this important Site of Special Scientific Interest" and to find solutions which "maintain the superb existing amenities".
Rainham Marshes is one of 60 RSPB reserves that the Recorder exclusively revealed were facing cuts by the conservation charity in October 2024.
The RSPB called it a "difficult decision", but said that these changes were needed to ensure its "longer-term sustainability".
A specific date has not yet been confirmed for the permanent closure of Rainham Marshes' cafe, but the Recorder understands that it is currently still open.
The Recorder has contacted the RSPB for further comment.
