Work on the Fields
Work Parties
We hold a working party on the weekend of the 2nd Saturday in every month. There is a group of regular volunteers, of all ages, who enjoy carrying out various types of work, covering tasks such as clearing scrub, erecting and repairing fences, grass cutting and planting trees and hedges.
We start at 09:30 on Saturday and Sunday and normally work till around lunchtime, but you may stay, on either or both days, for as long or as short a time as you can manage. On some projects we welcome help from the public, particularly children, for instance when we planted the orchard and 500 bluebell bulbs.
There are often jobs than need tackling outside working parties so if you would like to be involved at other times please get in touch. If you would like to join us, or could help in any way, please let us know via our Contact Us page.
Working Parties in action!
Work Done
Since the first working party in October 2006 the Priory Fields volunteers have made considerable improvements in a number of areas. In order to create the main entrance to the fields a section of chain link fencing was removed together with some large hawthorn bushes. The ditch was then piped and the entrance ramp levelled. A balustrade was erected and an information board installed with the flagpole being added later.
Many months were spent clearing overgrown brambles and undergrowth and new bridge was built to create a convenient pathway to the Priory Arch.
Paths have been created to afford access to all parts of the fields and are regularly cut. The grass around the arch is also mown to enhance the look of this ancient monument. As a result of the research carried out by the Maldon Archaeological and Historical Group small paving slabs have been inset into the grass to show the extent of the original priory.
The Priory Bridge
Building a bench
The trees are generally left in a natural state where safe to do so as they provide a wide variety of wildlife habitats. However, where low branches could prove to be a hazard or an obstruction, they are removed in accordance with the Tree Preservation Order regulations. Large quantities of old barbed wire have also been removed from the site to improve safety around the fields.
Several large stones from a later building on the site, but not from the Priory itself, have been placed in pairs, with oak planks attached, at strategic points around the fields to form attractive seating benches.
Near the main entrance is an area with several picnic tables and there are many seating benches around the fields where people can relax.
Trees, and hedging of various types, have been planted along the field boundaries and particularly along the fence bordering the football pitches.
Picnic benches
Planting a hedge
An entrance has been opened up in the north west corner of the West Meadow giving access from Moor Hall Lane for the convenience of residents living in and around that area. Here bins for litter and dog waste are also to be found.
The bank of the brook through the West Water Meadow has been cleared creating a pleasant walk leading to an area that has been set aside as a small Memorial Wood. This is probably the most peaceful and undisturbed part of Priory Fields where local residents may request to have a tree planted in memory of a loved one. A bridge was added at this point to connect with the West Meadow providing a circular route round the fields.
Building Memorial Bridge
Planting bluebells
In a corner of the East Meadow an orchard has been planted consisting of old Essex varieties of apples, pears, medlar and mulberry trees.
Some areas of the fields have been cleared of scrub, and are kept that way, to create a pleasant walk through. Other areas are cleared, then allowed to grow back, which over the years creates habitats of differing levels to suit a variety of wildlife.
To celebrate the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee in 2022 we planted 70 trees, mostly sponsored by members of the public, in various corners around the fields. These have needed considerable nurturing and watering during the hot summer months.
Planting the orchard
The orchard
In 2025 we were pleased to acquire the small field to the west of the arch, now called Priory Wood. This required a great amount of clearing of, not only brambles and other scrub, but much old iron, rubble and other farmyard rubbish. The most viable trees have been protected and the area opened up to the public giving access to the complete footprint of the Priory.
Clearing scrub
Priory Wood before clearing
Priory Wood after clearing
Future Plans
The development of Priory Fields is an ongoing process. Apart from regular maintenance such as grass cutting and keeping the ditches clear and the hedges under control there are various projects we hope to carry out.
We are planning to create a wildflower area on the north side of the arch which was unsuitable for hay cropping but should provide an attraction for the public as well as being a huge benefit to wildlife such as bumblebees and butterflies.
Over time we hope to plant more trees in the Priory Wood, creating a pleasant contrast to the open meadowlands around.
The wooden bridge is showing signs of deterioration after providing excellent service for nearly 20 years and plans are being drawn up for its replacement.