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Located at the northern end of Promenade Park, next to the Museum, the Secret Garden has already benefitted from improvements in 2024, including the installation of a new inclusive play area. Building on this success, Phase 2 will complete the transformation of the space, with the addition of more inclusive and accessible play equipment and the introduction of sensory planting, ensuring children of all abilities can enjoy the space together. These enhancements will create a vibrant, accessible, and engaging environment for residents and visitors of all ages to enjoy. 

The park’s iconic maze will remain a central focal point within the new design, ensuring it continues to be a cherished feature for generations to come. 

The transformation will be delivered by Kompan, the company behind the successful new play areas installed in Promenade Park and Riverside Park during 2024. 

Councillor Richard Siddall, Leader of Maldon District Council, said: “This is fantastic news for our community. We’re creating a space that’s welcoming, inclusive and full of life. The Secret Garden has been an overlooked area of Promenade Park for some time, and these improvements will make it better for families, visitors, and nature. I’m delighted that we’re investing in our parks and making them places everyone can enjoy.” 

Rob McDonald, Regional Sales Manager at Kompan UK added: “We were delighted to be invited to design this special playground for Maldon District Council at the Secret Garden and can’t wait to get started on its construction. The Secret Garden play area aims to increase the inclusivity of the play provision at Promenade Park with a focus on Special Education Needs (SEN) and neurodiversity, selecting equipment that will appeal to the senses as well providing physical play opportunities. Our purpose and promise is to create healthier and happier communities, and we hope that the visitors to the Secret Garden will benefit from this new play space for years to come.” 

Funding for the project is being provided through the Government’s UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF). 

Work is expected to begin next month and is due to be completed before Christmas, with further updates to be shared in the coming weeks. 

Notes: 

• The UK Shared Prosperity Fund aims to improve pride in place and increase life chances across the UK investing in communities and place, supporting local business, and people and skills. For more information, visit https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/uk-shared-prosperity-fund-prospectus.