Volunteers dig in to help spruce up Dovercourt seafront

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.

Sunspot in Jaywick shortlisted for national award

Sunspot Jaywick Sands
Sunspot Jaywick Sands

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.