Wetlands and nature reserves in Suffolk and Essex, including RSPB Minsmere, could be set to join the Jurassic coast, the city of Bath and the Tower of London on the prestigious list of UK sites with UNESCO World Heritage status.

The wetland, near Saxmundham, is part of the proposed East Atlantic Flyway, marking a migratory bird route along the east coast of England, which has been included on the Department for Culture, Media and Sport's (DCMS) 'tentative list' of UK sites with the best chance of achieving the honour.

READ MORE: Could parts of Suffolk gain Unesco World Heritage status?

If granted, the World Heritage status, bestowed on places that are of 'outstanding universal value to humanity', would cover wetlands and reserves on the whole route from Yorkshire to Kent.

The recognition would enable RSPB Minsmere and the other sites on the Flyway route to promote themselves on the global stage, while protecting them for future generations to enjoy.

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Michael Copleston, RSPB England director, said: “We are absolutely thrilled that the global importance of England’s east coast has been recognised by government and that the east coast wetlands will now be part of the UK’s Tentative List of World Heritage sites.

"These diverse places provide an essential refuge for over 155 bird species, as well as world-leading examples of how we can manage our coastlines in the face of a changing climate, with true value for nature and people.”

READ MORE: Saxmundham news 

The east coast is considered to be one of the most vulnerable coastlines in the UK due to rising sea levels through climate change, which threaten many habitats and communities.

Other natural sites to receive World Heritage status include the Galapagos Islands and Great Barrier Reef, although in the UK only the 96 mile Jurassic Coast, stretching from Devon to Dorset and the Giant's Causeway and Causeway Coast currently hold the status.

READ MORE: Suffolk news