Black Grounds

Coastal Marsh, Saltings in Essex Rochford

England

Black Grounds

Windsurfing at Shoeburyness The windsurfer is keeping upright, for the moment at least, on this very warm August day off the East Beach at Shoeburyness. The end of the Shoeburyness Boom can be seen to the left of the ship&#039;s bows (this was a cold war period protection against submarine attacks) and the north Kent coast can just be discerned on the horizon. — Windsurfing at Shoeburyness Credit: Stephen McKay

Black Grounds, Essex is a coastal marshland situated in the southeastern region of England. This area is known for its unique and diverse ecosystem, characterized by salt marshes and saltings. The marshland is located near the town of Brightlingsea and covers an extensive area along the coast.

The Black Grounds is renowned for its rich biodiversity and ecological importance. The salt marshes are home to a variety of plant and animal species that have adapted to the brackish water conditions. Notable vegetation includes sea lavender, samphire, and sea purslane, which thrive in the saltwater environment.

The marshlands serve as a vital habitat for numerous bird species, making it a popular destination for birdwatchers. Visitors can spot wading birds such as oystercatchers, redshanks, and curlews, among others. Additionally, the area serves as a nesting site for various seabirds, including gulls and terns.

Apart from its ecological significance, Black Grounds offers breathtaking views and stunning landscapes. The vast expanse of salt marshes against the backdrop of the sea creates a picturesque setting, attracting nature enthusiasts and photographers alike.

The Black Grounds also plays a crucial role in coastal protection, acting as a buffer against erosion and storm surges. The salt marshes help to dissipate wave energy and stabilize the coastline, providing a natural defense mechanism against the forces of the sea.

Overall, Black Grounds, Essex is a remarkable coastal marshland that showcases the beauty of nature and provides a sanctuary for a wide range of plant and animal species. Its ecological importance, scenic landscapes, and protective role make it a valuable asset to the region.

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Black Grounds Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 51.539685/0.8280124 or Grid Reference TQ9686. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Windsurfing at Shoeburyness

The windsurfer is keeping upright, for the moment at least, on this very warm August day off the East Beach at Shoeburyness. The end of the Shoeburyness Boom can be seen to the left of the ship's bows (this was a cold war period protection against submarine attacks) and the north Kent coast can just be discerned on the horizon.

Stephen McKay

National Coastwatch Southend Lookout Station

The National Coastwatch Institution provides a watching and listening service from stations around the coast of England and Wales. The watchkeepers are volunteers and the organisation should not be confused with HM Coastguard. The Southend Station is actually adjacent to the East Beach at Shoeburyness but within the QinetiQ compound, so access for the public is by prior arrangement only. The cabins were delivered to site in 2020 and from here the watchkeepers have an excellent view across the southern end of the Essex coast where it turns into the Thames Estuary.

Stephen McKay

Shoeburyness Boom

This curious structure, extending 2.01km out to sea (with two angled turns) from the East Beach at Shoeburyness, is a relic of the cold war. It was built between 1950 and 1953, replacing a Second World War boom that had been dismantled, and was originally 600m longer. Its purpose, together with a second boom stretching out from the Kent side of the Thames Estuary, was to prevent an attack on London by submarine; the open deep water channel between the booms would be protected by Royal Navy vessels at times of high alert. It wasn't long before the boom became obsolete as it offered no protection from jet fighters and nuclear weapons. The Kent side boom was removed in the 1960s but the Shoeburyness one remains, largely intact, and is now a scheduled monument.

Stephen McKay

East Beach, Shoeburyness

It is almost high tide and there is just a thin strip of sand and shingle to relax on; in fact, on this very warm August day there seems to be more people in the sea than on the beach. East Beach is sandwiched between sections of the shoreline with no access due to defence activities.

Stephen McKay