West Thurrock Power Station TQ 590768
The cooling water from the power station machinery is pumped
out near the quay and the disturbance in the river gives
good fishing opportunities for gulls and terns. It is for
terns in particular that this site is noted, both in spring
and autumn, especially black terns and, very rarely, the
white-winged black tern. Also of note are the large number
of herons (up to 55 have been seen at one time) which gather
on the ash-covered field behind the seawall. They probably
come from the heronry across the river at Northwood Hill.
Roosting wader flocks sometimes use the field as well. Do
not attempt to walk on this area as it is private and
potentially dangerous. Access is from London Road in West
Thurrock. Follow the road past the power station down
towards the river.
Heron