A new green heart is being created in one of Maldon's busiest areas.

The two acre Maldon Wycke Meadow nature reserve, just yards from the town's Safeway and Great Mills stores, will include woodland, open meadow area, a large pond, walks and rides.

Last week a team from the British Trust for Conservation Volunteers (BCTV) were working to complete a decking walkway at the site, while car parking access is also planned.

The new reserve is adjacent to the existing Maldon Wycke reserve which is owned by the Essex Wildlife Trust.

Maldon Council's landscape officer Nigel Cowlin explained the reserve is part of a wider plan by the district council to provide around four reserves in Maldon and Heybridge. Plans are already in place to develop a reserve on a reed bed site at Heybridge Creek.

Mr Cowlin said: "This site is being developed as a local nature reserve for all to enjoy. The expertise of Essex Wildlife trust will help Maldon District Council ensure that the wildlife comes to stay."

Volunteers are still needed for ongoing work at the site. For details on how to take part call Nigel Cowlin on 01621 875872 or Mark Wallington of BCTV on 01206 764470.

Wild work: Volunteers at work at Wycke Meadow.

By Susan King

Reporter's e-mail: susan.king@essex-chronicle.co.uk

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