Farleigh Hospice has submitted a proposal to create a 'Farleigh at Maldon' local hub at its new Maldon site to support patients, families and bereaved clients in the district.

The plans include a part single, part two-storey front extension to the new Farleigh Hospice site on Mill Road. This will create a new entrance, with clinical or consulting rooms on the ground floor, and a community café where people can meet eachother.

The proposal also involves a new garden courtyard to the midsection of the existing building and a garden to the rear.

Farleigh Hospice Chief Executive Alison Stevens said: "Over the last 18 months, Farleigh Hospice has continued to meet the increasing demand for hospice services within Maldon and the surrounding areas during the coronavirus pandemic.

"Prior to this, we made a commitment to the local community to have a physical presence in the area following the closure of our old Farleigh in Maldon Hospice site."

The hospice bought premises on Mill Road in January 2020, which it made into a temporary base for its South Team to operate from throughout the pandemic.

Alison said: "As part of the purchase process, we consulted with residents and businesses in the area to establish their views on what they wanted from a new hospice site.

"In response, we are working with a Maldon-based architect to create a facility which incorporates the feedback gained from this public consultation in the design."

The hospice has formally submitted its application for full planning after undertaking a pre-planning application process.

It hopes to include community groups and other charities in the hub where possible.

Alison said: "We are currently preparing a capital appeal seeking support from the local community to help us in creating a wonderful facility which will be an asset to the people of Maldon and the surrounding area for many years to come."