Written question asked by Bob Spink (Independent (affiliation)) on Tuesday, 14 July 2009, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 20 July 2009. It was answered by Huw Irranca-Davies (Labour) on Monday, 20 July 2009 on behalf of the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs.

Thundersley Common

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs on what date responsibility for Thundersley Common was transferred to Natural England; and if he will make a statement.

Answer: Thundersley Great Common (14.8 hectares) is owned and managed by Castle Point borough council. In 1987, 8.9 hectares of the common were notified as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 by English Nature (one of Natural England's predecessor bodies): the ownership remains with the borough council. Both Castle Point borough council and Natural England have statutory responsibilities to conserve and enhance the special interest features of the SSSI.

Secondary information