A major development at Maldon's quayside could see burnt-out workshops replaced by a mix of residential and commerical development.

And the proposal, which has to go before planners for approval, has been enthusiastically welcomed by three businesses whose future was uncertain following the fire in September last year.

Grove Homes has bought the East West Moorings site at Fullbridge and submitted an application to build a new workshop for existing riverside users.

Also included in the three component proposal is seven residential two/three bedroom units with workshops below and a third smaller building which will also be used as offices, workshops and storage. There will also be improvements along the quayside.

Peter Adamson, director of Grove Homes, said the company had designed the development to incorporate both the riverside businesses and residential development.

"We have tried to be sympathetic and are fully committed to the exisiting businesses that are going on there and introducing the opportunity for other water-related businesses to operate."

Shipwright David Patient said the news that his business was secure was the best Christmas present.

"The Cirdan Trust, blacksmith Tony Frostick and myself have been offered a very agreeable arrangement with a 15-year lease at an affordable rent. This will mean I can continue to offer boatyard facilities with added security and at no extra cost to boat owners.

"The plans as a whole rely on some residential development which will allow Grove Homes to subsidise the rent on our new building and take care of all the vested interests."

Nick Back, chief executive of the Cirdan Trust, said the new facility would give the charity much-needed extra space. District councillors hope to discuss the application in February.

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