WILDLIFE in Billericay is going to get a helping hand thanks to a new scheme to join up nature areas.

Living Landscapes is a national project to help link places where native species can thrive.

Now, thanks to the work of dedicated volunteers, places like Norsey Wood, Mill Meadows and Queens Park can all share in a string of green initiatives.

Neil Sumner, chairman of the Mill Meadows Society which looks after the meadowland in Billericay, is leading the campaign to create our own living landscape.

He said: "The Essex Wildlife Trust has designated Ramsden Heath and Woods as a single landscape, taking in an area stretching from South Hanningfield reservoir to Laindon Common and all the sites in Billericay.

"We want to create a space where wildlife can really thrive, so we're working with landowners to improve as many habitats as possible."

Two specific schemes have already been planned out for Billericay.

Mr Sumner said: "One plan is for a patch of woodland near Mill Meadows.

"We want to start coppicing the trees, which will really help animals thrive, maybe even helping nightingales to live there.

"The other is to help clear the moat at Ramsden Hall School.

"We want to get rid of non-native species and put in a dipping platform so pupils can see what's in there and learn about nature.

"We'll also be able to put in bat boxes and homes for dormice.

"We will be able to produce better maps of footpaths, and create two new wheelchair areas for people to use at Mill Meadows," said Mr Sumner, who is an IT consultant when not helping local wildlife.

He first became involved in conservation after spending time birdwatching at Mill Meadows.

He said: "I joined the society and ended up becoming chairman. Now I'm involved in this.

"It's a long-term plan that will take us several years to work through, but I'm sure it will be a fantastic benefit to the community."

Mr Sumner will be presenting a talk on Living Landscapes at the Reading Rooms in Billericay High Street tomorrow at 7.45pm.