Coast & Countryside of our District

The special environmental quality and character of the Maldon District have been forged by its principal waterways - the estuaries of the Blackwater to the north and the Crouch to the south. To the west the River Chelmer meanders through the countryside until it joins the Blackwater at Maldon. The Blackwater Estuary, Dengie Flats and River Crouch are all Sites of Special Scientific Interest and much of the District's coastline is recognised as of special landscape quality.

The District is an attractive area of varied landscape with a distinct contrast between the well-wooded, higher land to the west and the flat marsh and pasture landscapes of the valleys in the east. The land adjacent to the rivers and coast is flat and relatively treeless, much of it having been reclaimed from marshland. The sea walls, creeks, saltmarsh and mudflats give a feeling of remoteness and isolation which is characteristic of this part of the coast.

The combination of climate, soils and topography has resulted in a wide range of habitats in the District. Recognising that the maintenance of a diversity of habitats is essential to the retention of a balanced natural environment, the Council is actively involved in the Bio diversity Action Planning process.

The District Council supports the safeguarding and enhancement of the landscape, nature conservation and rural nature; by designing and implementing environmental enhancement projects and offering landscape enhancement grant aid, by protecting trees and hedgerows of recognised importance and organising and promoting community involvement in National Tree Week events.