WORK is set to start on transforming a former military site into a vibrant new community space.

The project, at the Gunny on Canvey, will see a new community building created to host workshops, social groups, and other activities alongside a children’s play area and outdoor gym equipment.

Picnic areas, raised vegetable beds, pergolas, and accessible paths will also be installed for community use.

During the Second World War the Gunny, off West Crescent, was an anti-aircraft gun battery and barracks but by the 2000s, it was a muddy marsh.

Trust Links, which provides a range of mental health support in south Essex, is hosting a special launch event on Friday, November 29, from 11am to 12:30pm.

Matt King, CEO of Trust Links, said: “After 10 years of work by the Canvey Island Big Local in partnership with a range of local groups, Trust Links are delighted to be commencing the building works with tree planting and awarding the main building contract.

“We anticipate that the building work will be completed in summer 2025 and look forward to running and supporting a range of activities at the site and continuing to develop the space for local people to enjoy.

“It has never been more important to focus on our mental health and wellbeing, connecting with nature, and building a cohesive and active community – we hope The Gunny will be at the heart of helping to achieve this with and for the people of Canvey.”

The Gunny is also set to become a biodiverse haven, with wetland areas, wildflower meadows, and tree planting designed to enhance the local ecology.

One of the cornerstone projects to be established at The Gunny is Trust Links’ Growing Together initiative, a therapeutic gardening project that has already proven successful in supporting mental health and wellbeing across Essex.

The project was made possible after financial backing from several sources, including Canvey Island Big Local, and charitable foundations such as the Wolfson Foundation and the Bernard Sunley Foundation, as well as a £300,000 grant from the Government.

At the launch residents are invited to plant trees, enjoy refreshments, learn about future plans for the site, and mark the start of works getting underway.

Works are then due to be completed in summer 2025.