Blackwater, Crouch, Roach and Colne Estuaries MCZ

Site Overview

Blackwater, Crouch, Roach and Colne Estuaries Marine Conservation Zone is located on the Essex coast, north of the Thames estuary. The site was designated in 2013 and protects one of the largest estuaries in the East of England covering an area of 284km. Large areas of undisturbed saltmarsh, mudflats and sandflats can be found throughout the MCZ and it is recognised as one of the most important areas for wild and cultivated Native oyster (Ostrea edulis) in south-east England.