Crossness (on Erith marshes between Abbey Wood and Belvedere) is a Metropolitan Site of Importance for Nature Conservation, recognised as one of the most important sites for wildlife in London, not just Bexley. It retains that status in part thanks to the tireless efforts and skills of Manager Karen Sutton and those who volunteer their time to help here. No particular knowledge is required to participate, and there are free refreshments at all this winter’s events. There is much to learn and new friends to be made by getting involved!
A previous winter work-party at Crossness. (Photo: Martin Petchey)
Weds 11th Nov 10:00 – 14:00 CONSERVATION TASKDAY– Raking and clearing cut reed around the wader scrape complex. Refreshments provided. 10 a.m. the entrance to the Protected Area. Pedestrian access across the field off the corner of Norman Road roundabout, otherwise the Norman Road gate (DA17 6JY) will be open and vehicle access permitted.
Fri 8th Jan 10:00 – 14:00 WINTER BIRD WALK WITH RALPH AND BRENDA TODD – The borough’s birding experts are once again leading a winter bird walk at Crossness Nature Reserve. The event will include a look at the busy River Thames where waders and wildfowl never fail to disappoint. Don’t forget your binoculars! Refreshments provided. Pedestrian access across the field off the corner of Norman Road roundabout, otherwise the Norman Road gate (DA17 6JY) will be open and vehicle access permitted.
Fri 22nd Jan 10:00 – 14:00 CONSERVATION TASKDAY – Work off all that Christmas indulgence by joining us for winter vegetation clearance in the Protected Area of the nature reserve. Refreshments provided. Pedestrian access across the field off the corner of Norman Road roundabout, otherwise the Norman Road gate (DA17 6JY) will be open and vehicle access permitted.
Wed 10th Feb 10.00 – 14:00 CONSERVATION TASKDAY– Litter blitz. Every winter, the Crossness Southern Marsh gets windblown litter from the adjacent A2016 and other local roads. Please help us undertake a litter-picking blitz whereby we’ll split up into small groups to clear different parts of the marsh. Wellies recommended, but good strong boots otherwise essential. A change of footwear is advisable for your journey home as we will also work in horse-grazed paddocks where dung is a-plenty! Refreshments provided
10:00am at the vehicle entrance to Crossness Southern Marsh (green weldmesh gates, under the red flyover on the right-hand/east side of Belvedere Road, Abbey Wood, SE2 9AQ). Parking available on Belvedere Road by the gates, or in the Southmere Lake/ Lakeside Complex car park off Belvedere Road if preferred
Wed 17th Feb 10:00 – 14:00 CONSERVATION TASKDAY– Wetland reed clearance. If the water levels allow us to undertake winter reedbed cutting, we will need all hands on deck to help clear, and potentially burn, all the cut vegetation. Wellies essential for reedbed work. Refreshments provided
10:00am at the vehicle entrance to Crossness Southern Marsh (green weldmesh gates, under the red flyover on the right-hand/east side of Belvedere Road, Abbey Wood, SE2 9AQ). Parking available on Belvedere Road by the gates, or in the Southmere Lake/ Lakeside Complex car park off Belvedere Road if preferred.
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