Work has started on a masterplan to boost retail, employment, transport and leisure in Maldon and Heybridge.

Fifty representatives from businesses, voluntary groups and the public sector attended a recent workshop, organised by architects and town planners Allies and Morrison and property consultants GL Hearn.

It is part of Maldon District Council’s Local Development Plan, which sets out future housing and employment for the district.

A report from the first workshop will be available by mid-May, which will identify key sites and priorities.