The Walls and Gardens project in Essex considers two distinct areas.  

First, the Martello Towers on the east Essex coast with a focus at Jaywick and second, the defence of the Thames in Thurrock, South Essex with reference to Coalhouse Fort and Tilbury Fort.  
At Jaywick Martello Tower, previous restoration work has enabled the historic monument to become a centre for creative displays and activities relating to the themes of community, heritage and the environment. This engagement work will be supported through Walls and Gardens with an exhibition to help more people understand the significance of the historic building. There will also be improvements to the surrounding landscape that will enhance the setting of the Tower.  Digital technology in the form of a heritage trail app will improve understanding of the surrounding context at Jaywick and also link to the other Martello Towers along the coast.
Further south at Coalhouse Fort and Tilbury Fort, an existing digital app will be expanded into a 5km heritage trail to connect the Forts along a path running alongside the Thames.  The app will tell the story of the defence of the Thames and be supported by 

signage at key locations.  The app will also increase understanding of the Forts by referring to their architectural features as well as their local social significance.  This supports the work of English Heritage at Tilbury Fort and the Coalhouse Fort Project charity based in Coalhouse Fort.

"Walls and Gardens" has enabled these sites in Essex to learn from the experiences of other defensive sites on the continent and better connect visitors and local residents to their heritage.  At the same time, it has offered a unique opportunity to share local experience with digital apps with our continental neighbours in a positive spirit of European collaboration.

Tilbury Fort, The Fort, Essex - RM18 7NR
Tel : +44 (0)1375 858489

Coalhouse Fort, Princess Margaret Rd,
East Tilbury, Tilbury, Essex RM18 8PB
Tel : +44 (0)1375 677764

Jaywick Martello Tower,
The Promenade, Belsize Avenue,
Jaywick, CO15 2LF ; E
Tel : +44 1255 822783.

 http://youtu.be/NWSdaKUgoKE

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