New £1.5m south Essex seafront pavilion set to open as hunt for cafe firm continues
AN Essex council is spending £1.5million on a seafront pavilion but bosses do not have 'a suitable tenant' or opening date, despite external works progressing.
Construction for the new pavilion just off Thorney Bay Beach on Canvey is expected to be completed in May, but the council is still looking for a cafe operator, with signs at the site about the vacancy.
The new business is already delayed, as last September Canvey Independent, council leader Dave Blackwell, said it was due to open to the public in the spring, with construction works set to finish by January.
The council says it does not have any exact date yet for opening.
Barry Palmer, Canvey Independent councillor for economic growth and climate action said: 'Construction works are expected to be completed in May. This development is an important investment for the area, providing much-needed public facilities, including toilets, for those visiting Thorney Bay and the surrounding seafront.
'It will improve local amenities and create a more accessible and enjoyable environment for residents and visitors alike. Subject to a suitable tenant, it is expected to house a café, further enhancing the seafront experience and supporting local business. We look forward to unveiling the Pavilion in the coming months and will continue to share updates as progress continues.'
Plans to regenerate the seafront have been on the table for at least six years. In 2019 plans included a new pavilion with a viewing area, a new retail kiosk, increased car parking and an improved walkway to connect Thorney Bay with Canvey's central seafront.
Castle Point Council has been awarded the money from the government's Coastal Communities Fund which meets the majority of the project's £1.72 million price tag. The seafront is also benefiting from investment with Fantasy Island funfair expanding and almost £10million being spent on improved sea defences.
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