A MALDON community group has started work on a new community forest garden. 

Moat Foundation, a housing association which owns a retirement living scheme, in Washington Close, Maldon, is set to create a new community area. 

The organisation has started work with Maldon District Council and Heybridge and Maldon Climate Action Partnerships (HMCAP) to create a community forest garden on the land near Washington Close.

A long-term lease has been offered to HMCAP for the disused piece of Moat-owned land.

The project aims to inspire people of all ages to volunteer their time to good causes and remember the importance of the local environment.

Moat Foundation is providing funding to survey the area, set up risk assessments and complete all the legal work.

They will also set up volunteer groups and new equipment for the initial clearance.

Mumtaz Samad, head of Moat Foundation, said: “We’re excited to see the creation of this amazing community forest garden.

"This is a unique project for us and a great example of a community-led climate action initiative.

"It’s also our first community-managed environmental sustainability project thanks to the support from our Essex climate action partner, Heybridge and Maldon Climate Action Partnerships.

"We hope that customers in our retirement living scheme and the wider community surrounding Washington Close enjoy the benefits of having this special green space as part of their neighbourhood.”

The first working party, led by HMCAP and Essex Wildlife Trust, saw volunteers removing brambles, litter and dead branches as well as trimming overgrown bushes and trees.

Council leader Richard Siddall said: “The Community Forest Garden is an exciting way to involve local people in caring for nature and wildlife.

"I am delighted that the council has been instrumental in making this initiative a reality with the support of our partners. I look forward to seeing the community forest thrive and grow.”