ESSEX RIGS GROUP
REGIONALLY IMPORTANT GEOLOGICAL AND GEOMORPHOLOGICAL SITES

What are RIGS?
The only record of the history of our planet lies in the rocks beneath our feet. Here, and only here, can we trace the cycles of change that have shaped the Earth in the past, and that will continue to do so in the future. The record is unique and much of it is surprisingly fragile. The greatest threat to our Earth heritage is lack of awareness and the Regionally Important Geological Sites (RIGS) initiative was set up to address this problem.
RIGS are currently the most important places for Earth science outside statutorily protected land such as geological SSSIs. RIGS are identified by locally-developed criteria and notified to planning authorities by RIGS groups. RIGS are important as an educational, historical and recreational resource and are broadly equivalent to Wildlife Sites and other non-statutory wildlife designations. Typical RIGS include disused quarries, cliffs, isolated boulders and river meanders. The designation of RIGS is one way of recognising, and thereby protecting, important Earth science and landscape features for future generations to enjoy.

Site selection
RIGS in Essex are selected by the Essex RIGS Group, a largely voluntary group composed of representatives from English Nature, Essex Wildlife Trust, Essex Field Club, Essex museums, Essex County Council's Planning Division and the county's two geological societies. The site selection process is based on clearly defined criteria including the value of the site for educational visits, for promoting public awareness of geology, for scientific study, its historical importance, or the site's aesthetic value in the landscape. When selecting sites the group takes care to gain the support of landowners whenever possible, explaining the importance of the site and the need for conservation and sensitive management. The designation of a RIGS does not imply any right of access.

Notification to planning authorities
Sites are recommended to local authorities for designation as RIGS. This will be in the form of a letter with a site record and extract from an O.S. plan with the boundaries of the site marked.

Site protection
The recognition of RIGS by planning authorities is an important stage in the protection of such sites. Although RIGS have no statutory protection, a recognition of the interest of a site by all parties will greatly help to protect it. The loss of important sites in the past has been due to a lack of awareness and understanding more than any other reason. The geological interest of a site can usually be accommodated in any development and in most cases this will complement and enhance the new use for the site.
Once designated, RIGS can be listed in the local authority's development plan. Conservation and management of sites will depend on agreements and co-operation with landowners. The Essex RIGS Group should be consulted by the local authority if any development is proposed that would affect the site.

Note: The Essex RIGS Group works in the administrative county of Essex, Thurrock, Southend and the London boroughs of Barking, Havering, Newham, Redbridge and Waltham Forest.