BUSINESSES, stakeholders and councillors have taken part in the first coastal community team event.

Maldon District Council, in partnership with Rochford District Council, is bringing together businesses, leaders and volunteers to form two coastal groups – one for the River Blackwater and one for the River Crouch.

The event took place last week in on the Thames Sailing Barge in Maldon with 28 representatives.

A similar event also took place for the River Crouch area, in Hullbridge on October 21, in partnership with Rochford District Council, where similar groups participated.

It has been made possible by using funds made available by the Department of Communities and Local Government.

The two teams will share ideas on how best to promote their areas and how different organisations and stakeholders can work together to identify priorities, solve issues and coordinate local projects.

Penny Channer, Chairman of the Planning & Licensing Committee, introduced the Maldon event and said: “This was a great event and opportunity for the District Council to facilitate such an important event for our coastal stakeholders.

“I am certain that, with all the District has to offer, we can all capitalise on this work, overcome barriers and produce real outcomes for residents and visitors to the District."