February 22, 2020

Giles Watling has pledged his support for Clacton Pier as it starts its preparations to make vital repairs to its ride deck.

The Clacton MP visited the landmark attraction to meet with its directors and to witness the extent of recent damage firsthand.

A section of the ride deck collapsed into the sea last Friday (February 14) following the effects of Storm Ciara, and while refurbishment work was being carried out.

The debris has now been cleared away and the next stage is to carry out the repairs as soon as possible.

Director Billy Ball told Mr Watling that it is important that the work is not delayed, and any hold-ups would have a significant adverse effect on the business.

“We have discovered that carrying out the repairs may not be quite as straight forward as we initially anticipated in terms of permissions and that is all being looked into,” he said.

“We need to get these matters resolved and any help Giles can give us to move things forward will be greatly appreciated.

“We were delighted when he agreed to come down and meet us - and we had very positive discussions.”

The Pier has already been visited by a government body, the Marine Management Organisation, and discussions took place about the way forward.

Mr Watling said he received a very thorough briefing on the incident itself and any possible complications there may be in carrying out the repair work as a matter of urgency.

“I am quite prepared to have talks with those involved in this process to try to ensure that there are no unnecessary delays,” he added.

“We do not want another situation like the West Pier at Brighton and Clacton Pier’s directors really need to get on with the programme of repairs as soon as possible.

“The Pier is one of Clacton’s most important employers and is crucial to the holiday industry of both the town and wider Tendring District. We must not let this situation drag on and I will do whatever I can to help.”

Mr Ball added that at this stage there is no final figure for the cost of the repairs or any start date for the scheme.

“A number of our outside rides – Twister, Paratrooper, Bumper Boats, Scalextric and hopefully the Go-Karts will open next Saturday (29^th) and we will reopen to fishermen on the same day,” he said.

“As always we will strive to keep our customers updated as the situation progresses.”

Ends