1930s water tower, Cherry Garden Road (EHER 15607)

One of the earliest extant reinforced concrete water towers in Essex, built in 1934. The absence of modern additions/alterations suggests that much of the tower's internal spatial/technological configuration survives. It was recommended for listing in 1998. This tower is still in use by the water industry and is well maintained.

1999. Field survey. This is the site of one of the earliest extant reinforced concrete water towers in Essex, built in 1934. The circular tank is supported on twelve concrete columns, from the capitals of which spring rounded arches, and a circular central core. The columns are tied together with ring beams and by supporting ties and struts back to the central core. There are also supporting ribs under the tank floor. The central core has rectangular metal windows and a wooden door. The tank is topped by a concrete balustrade and has a cupola rising from the centre with a flagpole on the apex. The absence of modern additions/alterations suggests that much of the tower's internal spatial/technological configuration survives. It is one of twelve concrete water towers that were examined during the survey. Although these all adopt a similar form there are many different variations in style and as a group they proved difficult to assess. It is hoped that further guidance will be produced as a result of the national survey, but until this is submitted three Essex examples have been provisionally selected for statutory protection (EHER 15607, 15612 and 15615). Maldon is the earliest to be identified and the tower is built to a high architectural/engineering standard; it is recommended for listing at Grade II status. This tower is still in use by the water industry and is well maintained. Prior to any future development/conversion a record of the tower should be undertaken, but the level will be dependent on the existence of original engineering drawings. <1> See photos <2>.