MALDON residents are being asked for their views on a major revamp of the play area at the top of Promenade Park.

The vast gated area, currently known as the Sensory Garden, is currently only partly occupied by play equipment for small children and a sensory garden with wildlife pond.

In a six-week public consultation launched by Maldon District Council this weekend, residents and visitors to the park can let Maldon District Council know what they think of the design proposals for the play area, which is close to Maldon Museum. The plans have been drafted for the council by landscape architects Wynne Williams Associates.

Money for the ambitious project has come from donations by new housing developers (through legal agreements between developers and the council to fund social and community projects in the area), as well as the council's capital funding.

The aim of the project is to make better use of the green space by creating a more natural and inclusive play area. The scheme is particularly designed for younger children who are beginning to play independently, including primary school age and will include accessible play facilities. Officers would particularly like to hear what play equipment has been enjoyed elsewhere and what might suit this area of the Prom.

A council spokesperson said: "The Council would like to encourage members of the public to share their thoughts and suggestions on the proposals.

"Consideration should be given towards the overall objective of this project which is to keep the area natural, open and accessible - this includes active and wide-ranging play."

Richard Holmes, the council's Director of Service Delivery, said; "I am delighted that we have these exciting proposals for the play area within Promenade Park, one of our most popular attractions and a much-loved area of Maldon.

"We are keen to hear from families who use the park now, or who may in the future.

"These designs are ideas at the moment, and with your help, we want to firm up a design that children and park users can enjoy for years to come."

The concept drawings and feedback form are available at the Maldon District Council website

The consultation is open until Friday, 25 September.