PLANS for new holiday log cabins have been submitted to be built in the Dengie.

Lisa Brown and Plainview Planning Ltd want to build six holiday log cabins, an education centre, tea room, staff and welfare cabin and six fish breeding pods at the Asheldham Pits.

The plans have been designed as a tourist destination, with the log cabins looking to

utilise the fishing opportunities available, with an overnight stay option at Silver Lake near the site.

The plans, which have been submitted to Maldon District Council, have stated it will provide a “secluded, rural and niche experience” for visitors, with a traditional look that would fit in with the rural woodland surroundings.

The cabins would be located along an existing footpath leading from the proposed car parking area up towards the education centre, welfare centre and worker’s accommodation.

The cabins would be floating on the lake to help prevent the loss of existing vegetation. The proposed education centre would be located to the north west of the site adjacent to a smaller lake, away from the tourist facilities. The cabin would provide teaching space for small groups. Representatives of the Duke of Edinburgh Award and district schools have already expressed an interest in using the facility.

Groups would be able to use the main lake for canoeing and sections of the woodland for walking. The education centre and smaller lake would provide a secluded space for teaching and learning.

The workers’ dwelling would be the smallest building in the development, giving accommodation for workers who will be looking after the woodland, education centre and the log cabins.

They would also help oversee visitors, manage the fish stock tanks and protect the site from trespassers.

Plainview Planning’s application said: “The site has had a turbulent history, but work undertaken the applicant to enhance the environmental qualities of the site have resulted in a positive transformation.

“However, the continued management of the site requires financial support and the full time commitment of the applicant.

“Consequently, the proposed development seeks to provide a sustainable source of income to help ensure the long term future and management of the wildlife site at Asheldham Pits.”