A VINEYARD has put forward proposals to build a new visitor centre, eatery and wine warehouse overlooking the River Crouch.

Crouch Ridge Vineyard, on Fambridge Road, Althorne, has applied to Maldon District Council to build the new agricultural-style building.

The site would include a wine warehouse, storage for agricultural equipment, a visitor facility and shop, bistro and wine tasting area. If approved, it would create 12 jobs.

Maldon District Council and vineyards on the Dengie are exploring promoting the area as an internationally renowned wine region to rival France and South Africa.

Owner Sam Lonergan, said: “Last year we launched our first wine, which proved to be a huge success, winning a silver national award.

"The launch attracted several hundred people from the area who came out on a lovely sunny evening to experience vineyard tours and taste their local wine.

“This showed us there was a strong demand for our wine and tours and with our expanding quantity and range of wines over the next few years we feel it is time to have a purpose-built vineyard venue for a wine store, visitor centre, shop and bistro."

The buildings will resemble an agricultural building with the side facing the river and having windows to look out over the vineyard.

Sam added: “Once the vineyard venue is up and running we aim to employ up to 12 people to help us run the bistro, warehouse, visitor centre and wine tours and tastings.

“The community and visitors will have a hub where they can meet friends for a snack, meal and glass of locally produced wine accompanied by locally produced food and drink, seated in a beautiful area overlooking farmland and the River Crouch.”

This year the vineyard will produce two white wines and a rosé.