A new state-of-the-art £850,000 environmental information centre is to be built at Wat Tyler Country Park.

The Pitsea project would provide a new conference, exhibition and lecture centre, purpose-built facilities for the young, old and families with young children and the provision of light refreshments.

It would also include the latest energy-saving designs and features as well as interactive educational displays and projects for students of all ages.

Money for the development has come from Cleanaway Pitsea Marshes Trust, set up under a Government scheme to allow waste management companies to provide cash for environmental projects.

The new information centre has been drawn up by Basildon Council's countryside team.

It is just one of a series of projects planned for the Pitsea Marshes, which will mean nearly £1 million is to be spent on the area.

Others include £40,500 to improve water management within the areas of special scientific interest with the aim of attracting even more wading birds to the area.

There is also a plan to enhance facilities for bird watchers with the construction of two large new hides costing £40,000.

The trust is also looking for applications for other suitable environmental projects to fund from its £10 million total budget.

The idea must meet the trust objectives of protecting and improving the environment, promoting education and public awareness of environmental issues and supporting advances in waste management.

Doug Benjafield, chairman of the trust, said: "Above all we want our available resources to support the community. We can not say yes to every bid - but we do want to hear from more groups and individuals with worthwhile projects which have long-term benefits for the community and the environment."

Individuals or groups wishing to submit proposals for support from the Cleanaway Pitsea Marshes Trust should contact trust secretary Eric Dear on 01707 874558.

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