Dartford Marshes
Dartford Marshes represent a vital component of the Green Grid initiative in North Kent, forming a critical link between the Kent Thameside Green Grid and the East London Green Grid.
These marshes, in conjunction with Crayford Marshes, serve a dual role as flood defences for London and as the last remaining open marshlands between London and Gravesend, holding immense ecological significance.
Dartford fresh water marshes are home to thriving populations of water beetles, featuring plant species like divided sedge, annual beard grass, and dittander, all of which are included in the Kent Rare and Scarce Species Inventory.
At one time, these marshes hosted the largest water vole population in Kent and regularly welcome a diverse array of migratory bird species, including the Semipalmated Sandpiper, Glossy Ibis, Eurasian Stone-Curlew, and the Pallid Harrier.
Currently, the marshes are undergoing a review with the objective of opening channels to allow for the free flow of water, which will, in turn, foster a more diverse ecosystem. This not only benefits the local communities surrounding the marshes by granting them increased access to nature and the Thames but also contributes to flood alleviation measures downstream.