The update to The Valley Play Area of Maldon Promenade Park is in its final stages, as the Council prepares to open the gates in time for half-term.

The new play equipment, built as part of a Maldon District Council partnership with KOMPAN, is now undergoing finishing touches ahead of its October half-term opening.

Similar to it's predecessor The Galleon, the new Pirate Ship offers a series of slides, climbing sections, and interactive features, with the addition of a Lighthouse and Zipline section.

The equipment remains fenced off while builders apply the finishing touches. (Photo: Chloe Brewster)

The replacement is taller than the old ship, standing at 6.6 metres.

There is also a mini trampoline, a merry-go-round, a seesaw and multiple spring rockers dotted around the new area.

The improvements come as part of a major transformation of play areas in Burnham-on-Crouch and Maldon.

Riverside Park in Burnham and 'The Secret Garden' in Maldon, both saw new equipment this Autumn.

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Maldon Mayor Andrew Lay and Chairman Cllr Kevin Lagan test out Maldon Promenade Park's new 'Secret Garden' play area by the maze. (Photo: Maldon District Council)

The new Valley equipment replaces the much-loved 'Galleon' ship, which had reportedly "reached the end of its design life".

The project, part-funded by the UK Government's Shared Prosperity Fund, hopes to provide a "modern and inclusive" to play areas across the District.

The Valley Play Area remains closed to the public while work is ongoing.