SPECIALIST markets, a new visitor centre, a restaurant and holiday homes are in the pipeline to attract more visitors to Maldon’s Hythe Quay.

In May Maldon District Council was awarded £50,000 from the government to explore ways to regenerate the historic waterfront.

The council will use the money to carry out a feasibility study into what works could be carried out.

It is hoped a contract for the study will be awarded by November this year with it completed by March 31, 2017.

A report, which will go before the council’s planning and licensing committee, has outlined the “main elements” the study will look at.

This includes looking at proposals for the quay area to be used for specialist markets and improving visitor moorings.

Other suggestions include a combined visitor centre and specialist restaurant.

The report said: “Specialist restaurants and a potential marine heritage centre have all been suggested as potential usages for a new facility.

“It is believed that there are two separate offerings and that there is a need for both.”

The study will also explore the commercial viability of “river huts” along the estuary, which could be used for holiday accom- modation or a commercial use.

John Rogers, of Maldon Little Ships Club, said the sailing club would welcome any works that would help attract visiting yachtsman.

He said: “It sounds a very positive step forward.

“We look forward to [the proposals] taking place. Anything to improve and encourage people to come to Maldon by boat is good for the town.”

Nick Fenwick, director of plan- ning and regulatory services said: “The council was pleased to secure funding from the Coastal Revival Fund for a feasibility study in to the revival of the Hythe Quay area, the committee will be considering the scope of the proposed project brief as out lined.”

The quay will be discussed at the planning and licensing committee today from 7.30pm at the council offices in Princes Road, Maldon.