Maldon District Council

05/06/2026

Animal and Plant Health Agency are urging people to be alert to oak processionary moth caterpillars and their nests as we enter the peak season for this pest of oak trees. 🐛

The caterpillars – predominantly found in South East England – descend down oak trees in head-to-tail procession, earning them their name. They feed on the leaves as they move, which can negatively impact the tree's growth. This can weaken the tree and leave it more vulnerable to other stresses, such as diseases. 🌳

Oak processionary moth caterpillars are covered in long hairs that can cause itchy rashes, eye and throat irritation and should not be touched under any circumstances. 🤚🚫

They also form silky white nests, ranging in size from as small as a 50 pence piece to as large as a melon. These nests discolour over the season, appearing dirty and brown by August. The nests also contain the hairs, and similarly should not be touched. The nests can be found on the trunk or the underside of branches of oak trees. 🕸️

Never try and remove or dispose of the nests yourself. ⛔

If you spot this tree pest, do not touch or get close to the caterpillars or nests. Please report it using the link in the post below. 👇

We're urging people to be alert to oak processionary moth caterpillars and their nests as we enter the peak season for this pest of oak trees.

The caterpillars – predominantly found in South East England – descend down oak trees in head-to-tail procession, earning them their name. They feed on the leaves as they move, which can negatively impact the tree's growth. This can weaken the tree and leave it more vulnerable to other stresses, such as diseases.

Oak processionary moth caterpillars are covered in long hairs that can cause itchy rashes, eye and throat irritation and should not be touched under any circumstances.

They also form silky white nests, ranging in size from as small as a 50 pence piece to as large as a melon. These nests discolour over the season, appearing dirty and brown by August. The nests also contain the hairs, and similarly should not be touched. The nests can be found on the trunk or the underside of branches of oak trees. Never try and remove or dispose of the nests yourself.

If you spot this tree pest, do not touch or get close to the caterpillars or nests. Please report the sighting via the TreeAlert portal: https://treealert.forestresearch.gov.uk/

Find out more: https://www.gov.uk/government/news/warning-on-oak-processionary-moth-issued-ahead-of-peak-season

05/06/2026

Some useful advice if you're planning to visit our coastline soon! 🛟

Find out more about the campaign in the post below, and give RNLI a follow for more live-saving advice! 👋

05/06/2026

For information about adult social care and health in the Maldon District, visit Essex County Council for regular updates.

04/06/2026

🚗💨 Speeding? Let’s talk TruCam! 👮‍♂️📸

Did you know that our Community Engagement Officers are accredited and authorised by Essex Police to carry out speed enforcement using a system called TruCam in the Maldon District?

✅ We only operate in specific, agreed locations.
✅ All fines are issued and handled by the Police.
✅ Speed enforcement is just one way we help protect road users through the Safer Maldon Partnership.

We also work with:
🙋‍♂️ Community speed watch groups.
🏫 Local schools.
👥 Youth and resident organisations.

📢 If you spot speeding in your area, please report it to Essex Police – they’ll assess and organise enforcement where needed.

Let’s work together to keep our roads safe! 💚

03/06/2026

There are lots of things happening throughout the year in our parks and open spaces!

Find out what events are happening in our parks online at https://ow.ly/Gwpt50W7Gfc 🔗

Photo: Soultasia in Promenade Park.

03/06/2026

There is still time to take part in our public survey to gather views on the future of the Maldon Museum in the Park and the potential development of an Arts and Culture Centre at Maldon Promenade Park. 📝

See the comment below for details of how to take part in the survey. 👇

We have launched a public survey to gather views on the future of the Maldon Museum in the Park and the potential development of an Arts and Culture Centre at Maldon Promenade Park. 📝

The survey gives residents, visitors and stakeholders the opportunity to share their views on how the Museum can remain a valued community asset while responding to changing needs and improving its long-term sustainability. Feedback will help inform a report to be presented to councillors in July. 🔎

The Museum is an important part of the district’s heritage, but it requires investment and updating to increase its relevance and appeal to visitors. 👪

Additionally, as part of our wider consideration of options for the site, we are also exploring whether an Arts and Culture Centre could provide a flexible space for; exhibitions, workshops, performances, public talks and community-led displays, complementing the Museum’s core offer. 🎨

Current early cost estimates for an Arts and Culture Centre are in the region of £2 million to £3 million dependent on detailed requirements. No decision has been made, and the Council is keen to hear a broad range of views before any recommendations are submitted to councillors and are finalised. 🗨

Cllr Simon Morgan, Leader of the Council, said; "I would encourage everyone to take part in the survey and help shape the future of culture and heritage provision in Maldon District. The Council welcomes feedback from all those with an interest in the Museum, Promenade Park and the wider cultural life of the district."

“By taking part, residents and visitors can ensure their views are considered as the Council develops its proposals and prepares its report for July.”

See the comment below for details of how to take part in the survey. 👇

02/06/2026

If you are fleeing Domestic Abuse and need support, contact the National Domestic Violence Helpline on 0808 2000 247 or contact Refuge.

01/06/2026

We’re lucky to have some beautiful walks across the Maldon District – from riverside paths to scenic seawalls and historic trails. Here are three of our favourite park walks to inspire your next adventure. 👇

🌊 Promenade Park to Beeleigh Falls.

Starting in Promenade Park, this walk follows the River Blackwater past the historic Hythe Quay – home to traditional Thames sailing barges. Continue along peaceful riverside paths until you reach Beeleigh Falls, where the Chelmer and Blackwater meet in a fascinating network of weirs and waterways. Perfect for soaking up local history and enjoying a relaxing waterside stroll.

⚓ Riverside Park to Burnham-on-Crouch town centre.

This picturesque route takes you along the seawall with wide-open estuary views across to Foulness Island. You'll pass Burnham’s lively marina, filled with vessels of all shapes and sizes, and home to one of the UK’s rare floating lifeboat stations, before reaching the town centre where you can enjoy its cosy, old-world charm. ☕

🌳 Elms Farm Park to Witham (Blackwater Rail Trail).

A gentle and family-friendly route following the old railway line towards Witham. Along the way you’ll spot Langford’s preserved platform, Victorian bridges and even a rare wooden trestle viaduct – one of the last of its kind in the UK! A great choice for railway fans, history, nature and an easy-paced walk. 🚂

💬 Have a favourite local walk? We’d love to hear your recommendations – share them in the comments below!

👍 If you love exploring the Maldon District, give Visit Maldon District a follow and discover somewhere new.

📷 Aerial Essex | Carl Rolfe on Disused Stations | John Guiver | James Crisp Photography | Bella Films