A NEW tourism website intended to put Maldon on the map has been unveiled to industry leaders ahead of its public release.

The Visit Maldon District website was previewed at Maldon District Council’s tourism event at the Blackwater Sailing Club last week.

More than 50 people representing businesses and attractions attended the special event to hear about what it being done to promote the district.

The new website, www.visitmaldondistrict.co.uk, will be launched to the public next month and aims to promote attractions, events and accommodation across Maldon and the Dengie.

Miriam Lewis, leader of Maldon District Council, said: “This was a great event for the district and builds on the fantastic work of the council’s tourism team at the Tourist Information Centre.

“I would like to thank the Blackwater Sailing Club for hosting the event and encourage everybody to look out for the launch of the new Visit Maldon District website on Twitter and Facebook.”

Those attending the meeting also got to see the new branding and photography for the district which will be used to promote it as a great place to live, work and visit.

The branding will be used on signage, publications and the new website.

The scheme is part of the Sense of Place project, which was funded by the Magnox Social Economic Fund and the Department of Communities and Local Government’s coastal communities fund.

Penny Channer, chairman of the planning and licensing committee, said: “As a resident, I know we all value the rich heritage, fantastic local produce and stunning coast line of the Maldon district.

“We also know the major part the visitor economy plays in our overall economy.

“Whilst we continue to face tough and uncertain economic times, it is only through partnership with the private and voluntary sectors that the council, who recognises the importance of the leisure and tourism sector, can hope to realise its aim of making the Maldon District a better place to live, work and enjoy.”