Canvey's saltmarshes could become a protected nature reserve to fend off any development from the multi-billion pound Thames Gateway project.
The RSPB wants to lease nearly 200 acres of mudflats north of the island to manage and safeguard the area which is home to hundreds of varieties of animal and plant life.
It is feared the mudflats and wildlife could be affected by any nearby housing projects, or any move to improve river transport between south Essex and London.
The proposed two sites, one near Newlands and the other at the back of Castle Point Golf Course, are already areas of scientific interest but the RSPB wants them to become a fully-fledged nature reserve.
Group leader of the Southend RSPB Peter Hirst said: "This will hopefully get more people interested in wildlife and keep the developers away."
Should these plans get the go ahead the RSPB would get a lease of 21 years and have to pay a nominal rent.
The borough's leisure services manager Chris Moran is recommending approval of the plans in a report to Castle Point Council's highways and leisure committee on Monday night.
Published Thursday July 15, 2004
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