A stunning new mural has been completed in the centre of Maldon's Promenade Park.

The mural, which has been created in celebration of the soon-to-be-built nearby skatepark, was inspired by designs by Plume Academy students.

Cllr Richard Siddall, Leader of Maldon District Council, visited the mural last week and was full of praise.

He said: "It was great to see so many students involved in contributing to this amazing piece of artwork.

"It captures just what we wanted with the new skate park starting soon together with our nautical theme and heritage landscapes.

"The feedback from visitors has been very positive and it certainly brings a smile to everyone's face."

The creation is part of a street art initiative funded by the Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner for Essex (PFCC) through the Safer Streets Fund, delivered in partnership with the Maldon District Community Safety Fund.

The council hopes the brightly-coloured artwork will help to 'brighten' the skatepark area. (Credit: Maldon District Council)

It depicts several scenes, including a series of landscapes, a seal on the backdrop of the Promenade, and a female skater riding a wave. It replaces two previous art pieces, including an underwater scene and a Viking-style ship.

Roger Hirst, Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner for Essex, added: "We were pleased to support this exciting project through our Safer Streets Fund.

"This project is the first of many happening in the Maldon District, with additional CCTV and lighting, a bespoke youth shelter and social seating being installed as part of the new skate park being delivered by Maldon District Council.

"In the Police and Crime Plan 2024-2028, we state our aim of working with young people to build resilience and strengthen those factors which are known to prevent and reduce serious violence.

"A project such as this, providing equipment for young people is one of those factors, so it is pleasing to see so many students involved in this project and creating a sense of ownership."

A group of students from Plume Academy got hands-on to support Essex-based artists Brave Arts with parts of the mural.

Make Space For Girls is a a national campaign advocating for faciltiies and spaces that are welcoming to teenage girls. (Credit: Maldon District Council)

Spencer Clarke, Community Safety Manager at Maldon District Council, highlighted the importance of youth involvement: "Involving young people in decision making is vital.

"We worked with Make Space for Girls and Social Place last year to ensure that the design of our new skate parks is more inclusive and fit for all users.

"The ideas for using bright and vibrant colours for the mural came from local students, and we are delighted that some of them were able to get hands on and help with the artwork.

"Works on the new skate park will be commencing soon and as part of this, you will see more safety features added like cameras and lighting in the coming months."