Have your say on proposed changes to Conservation Areas in Manningtree & Mistley, and St Osyth

Residents are being asked to have their say on how local heritage is protected in Manningtree & Mistley, and St Osyth.

Tendring District Council (TDC) has today (22 September) launched a further four-week public consultation on the two Conservation Area Appraisals.

The consultation follows proposed changes to the boundaries of the Conservation Areas in the locations, based on feedback received during earlier consultations held in October 2021 and May 2022.

These changes have been informed by a detailed review of public comments, historic mapping, and on-the-ground features.

The updated Conservation Area Appraisals aim to better reflect the unique character of each area and provide guidance for future development and conservation.

They form part of the council’s ongoing commitment to protecting local heritage, as set out in the Heritage Strategy adopted in 2020.

Councillor Andy Baker, Cabinet Member for Housing and Planning, said the council was grateful to everyone who took part in the earlier consultations and encouraged residents to engage with the revised proposals.

He said: “Conservation Area Appraisals help us safeguard the beautiful and historic sites in our district for future generations.

“We highly value the opinions of local residents and strongly encourage you to participate in this consultation.

“By taking part, residents are shaping the future of their own communities, which will help them take even greater pride in where they live.”

To take part in the consultation, which runs until 20 October, and to view the updated appraisal documents and maps, go to https://tendringdc.oc2.uk. Hard copies will also be available at local libraries and at the Town Hall in Clacton.

If you have already submitted comments during the earlier consultations and do not wish to make any further contributions, there is no need to contact us again. However, we welcome additional feedback from anyone who would like to respond to the updated proposals.

Comments can be submitted online via the council’s consultation portal, by email to planning.policy@tendringdc.gov.uk, or in writing to the Planning Policy Team at Tendring District Council, Town Hall, Station Road, Clacton-on-Sea, Essex CO15 1SE.

Enchanting immersive heritage trail launches in Tendring

Walton Tendring Witch Heritage Trail TDC April 25
Tendring Witch Heritage Trail – Location Walton.

Tendring District Council (TDC) has launched a new immersive storytelling experience in Manningtree, St Osyth, Harwich and Walton-on-the-Naze.

Stories of the Tendring Hundred communities affected by the Essex witch trials have been brought to life for the first time through augmented reality – accessed by smart phone – to offer visitors of all ages a living history experience.

Unique wooden benches and information boards that reflect each location’s history have been installed, with additional historic information available on the Essex Sunshine Coast website.

Alison Rowlands, Professor of European History at the University of Essex, has been instrumental to ensure the stories of those impacted by the witch trails are told authentically and resonate in today’s society.

She said: “It is wonderful to see the months of hard work coming to fruition.

“I’m thrilled to see the finished results in their local settings and hope many other people from our region will be inspired to visit them.”

Gary Scott, TDC Cabinet Member for Arts, Culture and Heritage was thrilled to see the trail unveiled.

“The Tendring Witch Heritage Trail is an immersive journey through our district’s past,” he said.

“It not only preserves our past, but it brings to life the rich stories that have shaped our history.

“The trail also commemorates the lives of the Tendring communities that were brutally persecuted for witchcraft in the 16th and 17th Centuries.

“The sculpted benches are absolutely charming, and the augmented reality experience offers another dimension that will fascinate visitors and residents alike.

“Promoting our heritage, attracting visitors and encouraging them to stay longer is a core part of Our Vision, the council’s corporate plan.”

The trail was made possible thanks to £49,385 of funding from the Rural England Prosperity Fund (REPF).