THE decision date is coming up for a wildlife trust's plans to boost a North Fambridge nature reserve.

Maldon District Council's north western area planning committee will vote on plans to improve the Blue House Farm nature reserve at North Fambridge on Wednesday, September 8.

Proposals submitted by Essex Wildlife Trust include deepening three areas of the Round Marsh wetland, creating a raised walkway to a viewing platform, new banks to minimise disturbance to wildlife, and building a base for a future hide to view wildlife.

Excavated soil will also be used to create areas above the waterline for roosting and nesting birds on the 243-hectare site.

The proposals also include a new 2km long and 6ft high anti-predator fence, at an estimated cost of £115,000.

Read more: Wildlife trust unveils 'ambitious' plan to boost nature reserve

There have been no objections from consultees.

North Fambridge Parish Council recommend approval as it says the scheme will benefit wildlife and public accessibility to the "unique environment of Blue House Farm".

Planning officers have also recommended approval.

In the planning statement, Essex Wildlife Trust says: "This ambitious project proposal will transform this key site for wildlife by restoring historical features of lost ancient freshwater grazing marsh and creating a new wet grassland habitat, returning the land to its former state.

"In turn, this will provide the reserve with greater functional links to the surrounding SSSIs/SPAs and the wider landscape.

"The project will also deliver climate change resilience through increased water holding, improved soil health and carbon storage."

Maldon District Council will rule on the application.