Shorne to Shore

The Shorne to Shorne cluster study is currently  under way and is due to be completed by the end of March 2010.

Introduction

The Shorne to Shore landscapes form the transition between the rolling chalk downs and the flat grazing marshes of the Thames Estuary.  The ancient woodlands that cloak the broad wooded ridge to the north of the downs form a backdrop to views and a setting for the villages of Shorne and Higham. The woodlands are the focus for a group of protected landscapes which are important local destinations.  This is one of few places where views of the Thames Estuary marshes can be enjoyed from parts of Gravesend, the A226 and commuter trains.  The broad belt of open arable farmland which sweeps down from the ridge towards the marshes provides the setting for these expansive views.  By contrast, the narrow rural lanes have an enclosed, almost sunken character; some continue as historic tracks leading out on to the marshes.

The Big Vision...

This is yet to be finalised but so far stakeholders, residents and community groups have expressed a desire to improve access via a network of linked,safe greenways (footpaths, bridleways and cyclepaths), together with improvements to local bus and rail services to keep traffic off the roads. Gravesend’s Cascades Leisure Centre is seen as a possible starting point for direct greenway links to Shorne Woods Country Park.