Councillors have welcomed a report highlighting the “exceptional” quality of bathing water across Tendring.
Tendring District Council’s (TDC) Community Leadership Overview and Scrutiny Committee reviewed evidence and data on the quality of sea water, freshwater courses and drinking water in the district.
At a meeting on Tuesday, 28 January, the committee heard bathing water in Tendring is of exceptional quality with both Clacton and Walton regaining their ‘excellent’ status in 2024.
Councillors also heard that water quality at Holland-on-Sea has received a ‘good’ rating while Manningtree Beach is ‘satisfactory’.
There was praise for the efforts of the cold-water swimming group, the Mermaids, who are looking to see Manningtree Beach designated a bathing site which will mean that the Environment Agency must test the water off Manningtree beach on a weekly basis during the bathing season.
This in turn could see action by Anglian Water to further improve water quality there if its infrastructure nearby is affecting that water quality.
The committee also heard that drinking water in Tendring is of very good quality. It also welcomed news that Brightlingsea Harbour Commissioners has asked the University of Essex to carry out work to see how it can improve water quality in the harbour, including looking at the scrubbing of boat hulls and use of less harmful paints.
Councillors were also informed that Natural England had recently commissioned a biodiversity action plan for the rivers Stour and Orwell, looking at invasive species affecting water quality, which was described as a “really positive” step.
Councillor Graham Steady, Chairman of the TDC Committee, said it had called for evidence around water quality in response to concerns nationally about river and sea pollution in the UK.
“It is greatly reassuring to have seen the evidence and the improving direction of travel for this coastal area – this is a good news story for the district,” he said.
“We welcome the announced biodiversity action plan that is being developed for the rivers Stour and Orwell.
“We will continue to keep a watching brief over water quality with a series of site visits to be arranged.”
Councillor Adrian Smith, TDC Cabinet member for Environment, said: “Water quality in Tendring is very important to us all – especially given that we have 36 miles of coastline to our district, and with it some wonderful beaches and wildlife areas.
“Clean and safe bathing waters promote our heritage and encourage visitors to stay longer and enjoy our beautiful coastline.
“We are committed to championing our local environment and working with partners to improve quality of life.
“The recent water quality results reflect our dedication to maintaining and enhancing the natural beauty of our coastal areas.”
He added that TDC will continue to work diligently with its partners, including Anglian Water, to ensure that water quality remains at the highest possible standard, safeguarding the health and wellbeing of the community and visitors alike.
Work has begun to deliver a fascinating new heritage trail at four locations in the Tendring district thanks to funding from the Rural England Prosperity Fund.
The Tendring Witch Heritage Trail, launching in March, will explore the rich history and folklore of the region, revealing the unique untold stories of the families affected by the infamous historic witch trials – considered as some of the most severe in Essex.
To ensure historic accuracy and sensitivity, Tendring District Council (TDC) has been working in partnership with Alison Rowlands, a professor of European history at the University of Essex who specialises in witchcraft in the early modern period.
Professor Alison Rowlands said: “I’m excited to be involved as a historical advisor on this brilliant project, through which we will foreground the stories of the many women (and a few men) from Tendring Hundred communities who were tried as witches in the 16th and 17th Century. I’m really looking forward to seeing how the historical stories are reworked in woodcarvings and digital technologies by our creative experts.”
Scenic landmarks in Manningtree,St Osyth, Harwich and Walton-on-the-Naze will host beautifully sculptured benches and information boards designed with direct significance to the history of each area. These will be complemented with web content and augmented reality – accessed by phone – to link the user to real time stories.
Alasdair Craig of Essex Chainsaw Carving who is carving these assets, said: “I am delighted to be involved in such a unique and interesting project. The stories represented by these sculptures are fascinating, and it’s rare you get a chance to incorporate something like that into a carving.”
Cow Carving Sculpture – part of the Tendring Witch Heritage Trail – Credit Alasdair Craig
The witch trail builds on the success of the Mayflower Trail in Historic Harwich and the Clacton 150 Heritage Trail from Holland Haven to Jaywick Sands.
Gary Scott, Portfolio Holder for Arts, Culture and Heritage, expressed his enthusiasm for the project that aims to raise public awareness and appreciation of Tendring’s history.
“The Tendring Witch Heritage Trail will enhance our diverse heritage offering, for both residents and tourists,” said Councillor Scott. “We anticipate this will be a popular attraction due to heightened interest in witchcraft persecutions that have been reignited with the publication of best-selling books featuring the trail locations.”
Unsung heroes from across Tendring have once again been honoured in the district’s own version of the New Year’s honours list.
The 14 recipients of this year’s Pride of Tendring Awards, now celebrating its 13th anniversary, have been announced today (January 9, 2025).
These awards will be followed by a special ceremony at Clacton’s Princes Theatre on February 28, where all recipients will be officially recognised and presented with their awards.
This initiative aims to celebrate those who make a significant impact on the lives of others in the community.
The awards, run by Tendring District Council (TDC) and supported by Rose Builders, My Big Fat Greek Taverna and Wyvernwood adventure park, highlight advocates from all walks of life who contribute selflessly to their community.
District councillors have nominated individuals, groups, and organisations from across Tendring, all of whom are highly deserving of this recognition.
TDC Chairman Dan Casey expressed his heartfelt gratitude to all supporters of the awards.
“Across Tendring, we have countless remarkable individuals, with nominations pouring in from every corner of our district,” he said.
“Our mission is to celebrate these previously unsung heroes and heroines.
“The calibre of nominees has been exceptional, and the Pride of Tendring Awards is our way of acknowledging those who selflessly dedicate their time to our community without seeking recognition or reward.
“There is an abundance of incredible work happening behind the scenes that often goes unnoticed, and it is only fitting that we honour these extraordinary groups and individuals who make Tendring such a wonderful place.
“May this inspire many more to engage in volunteering, fostering the next generation of honourees in the years to come.”
The list of recipients is as follows:
The Harwich Festival
Nominated by The Labour Group
The Harwich Festival, led by artistic director Peter Davis and general manager Chris Berwick, has evolved into a year-round arts hub. It hosts gigs, theatre, art exhibitions, and workshops, supporting local arts groups and enriching the community with diverse cultural activities.
The Oakstones Senior Club
Nominated by Councillor Mike Bush
Founded in 1959, The Oakstones Senior Club has been a cornerstone for elderly residents, offering social activities, guest speakers, and community events. Meeting at Great Oakley Village Hall, the club fosters community cohesion and combats isolation in rural parishes.
The Oakstones Senior Club
Kate and Simon Tavener
Nominated by Councillor Matthew Bensilum
For more than 20 years, Kate and Simon Tavener have been lifesaving Community First Responders. They attend emergency medical calls, provide CPR training, and supported vulnerable residents during the pandemic, demonstrating unwavering dedication to their community.
Robert Passmore
Nominated by Councillor Bill Davidson
Robert Passmore, a dedicated community volunteer, has served in the army and police. He has raised funds through endurance runs, maintained community facilities, and supported mental health initiatives, exemplifying resilience and service.
Lindsey Bell
Nominated by Councillor Mick Barry
Lindsey Bell set a world record by hiking the entire British coastline to raise funds for MIND and National Trails UK. Covering 7,178.7 miles in 276 days, she raised over £10,000 and promoted the benefits of walking and nature.
Lindsey Bell
Lawford Football Club
Nominated by Councillors Giancarlo Guglielmi and Terry Barrett
Lawford Football Club, with 19 teams and 50 volunteers, has significantly contributed to community cohesion and physical well-being. Their state-of-the-art pavilion and well-maintained pitches have made them a cornerstone of local sports since 2011.
James Burns and Robert Keenan, Beewise Security
Nominated by Councillor Dan Casey
James Burns has organised Christmas hampers, raised funds for Essex Air Ambulance, and donated bleed kits, saving lives. His ‘Save a Life, Ditch the Knife’ initiative and community support have made a lasting impact in Clacton and Jaywick Sands.
Julia Clarke
Nominated by Councillor Gemma Stephenson
Julia Clarke has dedicated over 40 years to the musical and theatrical communities. As choir mistress and a key figure in local theatre, her contributions have enriched lives, provided comfort, and fostered a deep appreciation for the arts in Tendring.
Julia Clarke
Shama Martin
Nominated by Councillor Geeta Sudra
Shama Martin, founder of Martin’s United Foundation, tirelessly supports Tendring’s homeless and financially struggling residents. His charity shop in Clacton provides essential resources like bedding, clothing, and food, making a significant positive impact on the community.
Jill Joshua
Nominated by Councillor Ann Oxley
Jill Joshua, lead volunteer of Walton and District Community Foodbank, has been a dedicated leader since its inception. She runs multiple foodbank sessions, spearheads community projects, and ensures support for those in need, making a lasting impact on Walton-on-the-Naze.
Rob Trimmer and Trudy Farquhar
Nominated by Councillor Andy Baker
Rob Trimmer and Trudy Farquhar, leaders of the Sea Cadets Unit TS Atherstone, have transformed the unit into a thriving organisation. Their dedication to teaching life skills and building confidence in young cadets has made a profound impact on the community.
Rob Trimmer and Trudy Farquhar
Tom Anderson
Nominated by Councillors Carrie Doyle and Adrian Smith
Tom Anderson, Holland-on-Sea’s beloved lollipop man, volunteers tirelessly for local schools and charities. Known for his cheerful demeanour, he raises funds for the Poppy Appeal and supports numerous community initiatives, making a significant impact on the community.
Maureen Cochlin
Nominated by Councillor Mark Stephenson
Maureen Cochlin, a dedicated volunteer, serves as magazine editor for the Holland Residents’ Association and supports various community initiatives. Her efforts in collecting food and toiletries for those in need and her involvement in local projects make her a valued community member.
Mel Paris
Nominated by Councillor Sarah Newton
Mel Paris, organiser of Clacton Parkrun and the Great Bentley Half Marathon, dedicates her time to promoting community fitness. Her leadership in local running events encourages people to stay active and improve their well-being.
Council leaders have described £20million of projects to help regenerate Clacton and Jaywick Sands as a “once-in-a-lifetime opportunity”.
Tendring District Council’s (TDC) Cabinet has backed a whole host of schemes aimed at regenerating the town as part of a new Community Regeneration Partnership with the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government.
The council’s Cabinet approved the list of 15 projects and a delivery programme at a meeting on Friday, 20 December.
The projects include £3million to help improve Clacton Leisure Centre to become a new Active Wellbeing Centre and £2million for the NHS to contribute towards building a new urgent treatment centre and primary care facility at Clacton Hospital.
It also includes working with Essex County Council on a proposed £2.5million scheme to expand the Tudor Fields to Jaywick Sands walking and cycling route, which could also serve as an evacuation route and £5million for acquiring and repurposing a disused town centre building for community and cultural use.
Speaking at the meeting, Councillor Ivan Henderson, Deputy Leader of TDC and Cabinet Member for Economic Growth, Regeneration and Tourism, said: “This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to deliver transformative interventions across our district.
Photos: Clacton Town Square, Clacton Leisure Centre, Tudor Fields Jaywick.
“These projects will significantly improve the quality of life, access to opportunities and health and wellbeing of our residents.
“The projects chosen by government ministers for investment have been developed through community engagement and include initiatives like improvements to Clacton town centre and the seafront public realm, improvements to open spaces in Jaywick Sands, repurposing disused buildings on the seafront to create an arts community micro venue and refurbishing and repurposing Martello Tower E.”
The council’s Cabinet approved the start of work on the first of four waves of projects as well as £100,000 to create a cultural masterplan for the town centre.
The first set of projects include £500,000 for a seafront art and community micro venue, £500,000 to improve tired shopfronts, £210,000 to provide three new community transport mini-buses and £200,000 to expand the work of the Jaywick Sands Healthy Homes initiative, which will help towards the acquisition of derelict and long-term vacant sites.
The second wave of projects is set to be brought to Cabinet for approval in early 2025.
TDC is working closely with Essex County Council, which aims to secure formal approval for a number of the schemes it will be leading on early in the new year.
These include the £1.3million town centre and seafront public realm improvements, a £230,000 project for upgrading and improving bus stops and shelters on bus routes and a £200,000 scheme to equip the planned skills centre at the Clacton Library site.
Councillor Lee Scott, Essex County Council Cabinet Member for Housing, Planning and Regeneration, said: “This is an exciting package of proposals for Clacton and Jaywick Sands. The proposed improvements will make a difference to the lives of residents by improving sustainable transport connections, upgrading the public realm in Clacton town centre and creating opportunities for residents to learn new skills.
“We are pleased to be working with Tendring District Council on the proposals, which tie in closely with wider regeneration plans for the area.
“We look forward to engaging directly with residents on the proposed projects as they move forward.”
A supplementary structural survey has begun this week on the Dovercourt Leading Lighthouses and Causeway after Tendring District Council (TDC) accepted funding from Historic England.
The Victorian structures – also known as the Leading Lights – guided ships around the deep-water Harwich peninsular until 1917 and are of historical significance as they are believed to be the only remaining pair of iron leading lights in England.
The aim of this survey is to assess the condition of the unsighted legs that are hidden deep beneath the sand to establish what works would be required to preserve these historic structures.
This follows a series of surveys completed in 2023 by a range of specialists, including conservation engineers, ecologists, architectural historians, and corrosion consultants, who thankfully found no emergency issues for these scheduled ancient monuments.
Peter Kotz, TDC Cabinet Member for Assets, said he was keen for the survey to get underway.
“We are delighted Historic England has supported this further study that brings us closer to restoring these iconic structures,” Councillor Kotz said.
“The Dovercourt Leading Lighthouse Restoration is listed within TDC’s Heritage Strategy and fundraising for this is a key aim in our Corporate Plan that aligns with promoting Tendring’s heritage offer.
“We would like to thank everyone who has engaged with our consultations on the Leading Lighthouses, which provided an overwhelming demonstration of how this famous landmark on the Harwich coast is both highly regarded and desirable as a tourist attraction. We will be exploring a wider consultation as the project progresses.”
Historic England’s Repair Grants for Heritage at Risk will provide £47,440 for specialist engineers to continue the structural and condition work on the Dovercourt Leading Lighthouses and Causeway. The additional £5,272 costs will be funded by monies remaining from the underspend of the structural survey performed last year; funded by the National Heritage Lottery Fund.
Tony Calladine, East Regional Director, Historic England, said: “By supporting the survey work on the Dovercourt Lighthouses and Causeway we are proud to contribute to the safeguarding of these historic assets for people to enjoy, whilst maintaining a reminder of Harwich’s important naval and seafaring past, and the local area’s charming historic character.”
The hunt is on to find the most beloved heritage sites and historic buildings in Tendring.
Tendring District Council (TDC) has launched a ‘Call for Heritage Sites’ as part of a six-month public consultation starting today [Monday, 2 December].
It comes after the council’s Cabinet adopted criteria for a Local Heritage List earlier this year.
It will help the council to create a list of sites that are important to local people, but do not necessarily meet the specifications to be listed as officially designated heritage assets.
Andy Baker, TDC Cabinet Member for Housing and Planning, stated: “The Local Heritage List offers a unique chance for the community and the council to collaborate in identifying heritage assets that are cherished and distinctive elements of our local historic environment.
“Non-designated heritage assets include buildings, monuments, sites, places, areas, or landscapes that possess heritage significance worthy of consideration in planning decisions, even though they do not meet the criteria for designated heritage assets.
“For instance, war memorials or other structures of local significance can be nominated for inclusion on the Local List.
“As part of Our Vision, the council’s corporate plan, promoting our heritage – which in turn attracts visitors and encourages them to stay longer – is integral to everything we do.”
To submit a site for consideration, complete a Nomination Form and email it to locallist@tendringdc.gov.uk or post to: Planning Policy, Tendring District Council, Town Hall, Station Road, Clacton-on-Sea, CO15 1SE.
Green-fingered volunteers have been thanked for helping to spruce up an overgrown section of Dovercourt seafront.
The Dovercourt Diggers group, which was set up by Tendring District Council (TDC), has been keeping busy over the past year by clearing a section of overgrown scrub on the town’s cliffs, near the Pavilion restaurant off Marine Parade.
More than 15 volunteers, including members of Community Voluntary Service Tendring, have helped TDC’s Open Spaces Team to clear the overgrown space and plant new olive trees.
Spruced up – the new garden area on Dovercourt seafront. Image: TDC
The dedicated volunteers have also been helping to create a small garden next to the clifftop shelter opposite Orwell Road, while the council team has replaced slabs at the shelter and installed a new ramp to ensure it is accessible.
A number of new benches have also been installed in the vicinity.
Councillor Adrian Smith, TDC’s Cabinet Member for Environment, said: “I would like to thank all the volunteers and our hardworking Open Spaces Team for their efforts to improve this area of the cliffs in Dovercourt.
Before – the overgrown site near the Pavilion restaurant
“Championing our local environment is part of everything that we do and it is marvellous to see the seafront looking great for residents and visitors alike.
“It’s wonderful that local people are involved in maintaining our open spaces, helping our residents to take real pride in our town.”
If you fancy rolling up your sleeves and pitching in with the Dovercourt Diggers, email seanbiswell@tendringdc.gov.uk.
The Sunspot development in Jaywick Sands has been shortlisted in the prestigious Institute of Economic Development (IED) Annual Awards 2024.
The Sunspot has been recognised in the Social Value Champion of the Year category, sponsored by Social Value Engine, highlighting its significant contribution to social value creation and positive community impact.
Now open for a year and run by Tendring District Council (TDC), Sunspot is a £5.3million workspace development, featuring 24 commercial units, a covered market, event space, café, and other amenities.
The project received substantial funding from various sources, including £2.39million from the Government’s Getting Building Fund administered by the South East Local Enterprise Partnership (SELEP), £2.04million from Essex County Council (ECC), and £816,000 from TDC. Additionally, part of the UK Shared Prosperity Fund allocation is being used for operating costs.
Councillor Ivan Henderson, TDC Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Economic Growth, Regeneration and Tourism, expressed his pride in the recognition: “The Sunspot project was designed to be a gateway to Jaywick Sands, and being shortlisted for this award confirms that we have achieved our goal.
“The development is thriving, attracting businesses and visitors alike. My heartfelt thanks go to everyone involved.”
Councillor Lee Scott, Cabinet Member for Housing, Planning and Regeneration at Essex County Council, added: “It is fantastic to see the Sunspot recognised on a national level.
“This space is not only a hub for businesses but also a valued destination for residents and visitors. I extend my gratitude to all who contributed to making this development a reality.”
The winners of the IED Annual Awards 2024 will be announced at a ceremony on 6th November at BMA House in London.
Tendring District Scout Centre, Valley Road Clacton-on-Sea, CO15 6NA
Craft and Gift Fair. FREE entry and FREE car parking. Our regular stallholders will be there as well as some very interesting new stalls. We would love to see you there
