Rawreth
Rawreth is a wedge of green on the edge of the District, forming
a significant barrier of countryside between Rayleigh and Basildon.
The community, although small in number, is great in achievement
and spirit.
The area is mainly agricultural in nature with dispersed centres
of population and pockets of industry. Historically, most of the
farmhouses in Rawreth were moated manors, many of which survive
today. In the north, the hamlet of Battlesbridge straddles the
river Crouch and is therefore shared between the parishes of
Rettendon and Rawreth. Contrary to popular belief it was named
after the mediaeval family Bataille, not a battle. It is now a
popular centre for antiques.
The original Parish Council was disbanded in the 1930s when the
area was united with Rayleigh to form the original Urban District.
It was reformed in 1994, following the reorganisation of Local
Government.