THE first stage of works has been completed on a nature reserve designed for wildlife and residents.

Phase one of work for the development of the Chelmer and Blackwater Reserve has now been completed.

Grants, fundraising and donations from residents and the Essex Birdwatching Society have made the works possible.

The completed work means there is now safe access to the site and a start has been made for a boardwalk route through the area.

Maldon and Burnham Standard:

A bridge has also been constructed over the King’s Mere stream.

Phase two, which is expected to start early this year, will continue work around the bridge to construct a viewing platform and paths.

All the paths have been designed to allow disabled access.

A spokesman from the Chelmer and Blackwater Nature Reserve said: “You may have seen work being done on the river walk just beyond Tesco.

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“Phase one of work developing the Chelmer and Blackwater Reserve, an area between the River Blackwater and the canal saved from industrial development and now being developed as a haven for wildlife and a community asset, has just been completed ahead of schedule.

Maldon and Burnham Standard:

“Already wildlife is evidently liking what goes on and a kingfisher has regularly been seen perching on the new bridge; by spring the whole area will be an oasis of wildlife, yet one with good public access close to the town.

“The committee overseeing the project would welcome help and support to ensure development can continue as planned.

“More funds must be raised. If you would like to contribute you can become a shareholder or donate by visiting chelmerblackwatercic.uk/index.php/donations.”