RSPB Rye Meads, an internationally important wetland and Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) in Hertfordshire, is set to close in November and be handed back to Thames Water.

RSPB Important Update on Rye Meads 

But Rye Meads is more than a reserve on a map.

It is where children first discover wildlife, where families walk together, where birdwatchers, photographers, school groups and nature lovers gather. For many older and disabled visitors, it is one of the few accessible natural spaces available to them locally.

Places like Rye Meads are becoming increasingly rare.

At a time when Britain is already facing devastating biodiversity loss, the potential loss of publicly accessible, protected nature reserves is deeply alarming. The RSPB itself recently stated that “the science is clear that without these protected sites, the state of nature would be so much worse”. 

Once places like this are lost, they are extraordinarily difficult to restore.

We are calling on the RSPB to reconsider this decision, and work with Thames Water, local representatives, conservation bodies and the community to secure the long term future of Rye Meads and protect public access to this irreplaceable site.

This is not just about birds. It is about community, accessibility, education, wellbeing and our shared natural heritage.

Please sign and share this petition to help protect Rye Meads for future generations.