August 1, 2022

A vital project to improve facilities for staff and customers on Clacton Pier is continuing at pace.

The £150,000 scheme, which involves building new accommodation for employees at the back of the Log Flume, began at the start of the season and is planned to be completed in the Autumn.

It involves offices for rides management and a training room, as well as upgraded workshops for maintenance crews.

This will in turn free up two buildings at the landmark attraction which can then be brought back in use for visitors in the longer term.

These are the former RNLI boathouse on the east side of the pier and the Jolly Roger, the structure’s first proper building which dates back to 1893. Both are currently used to work on maintaining rides and the infrastructure.

Pier director Billy Ball said that contractors are working flat out on the project and are making excellent progress.

“Visitors have seen the work taking place and have asked if it is another attraction being built - such as a ghost train," he added.

"It is a significant structure which involves an expansion of the team’s workshops to further support the Log Flume and other rides on the pier along with much-needed extra office accommodation.

“It has also been strategically placed to free up buildings which we are planning to put to other uses and add to what we can offer our customers in the long run.”

Mr Ball said the intention is to have the new building dressed up to look like an American sawmill come dockside scene.

“This programme of work is all part of the on-going investment in the pier, its rides and attractions.”

Part of this a £100,000 plus refurbishment of the Waltzer which is due to return later this year.

On Saturday at around 9.30pm the pier will stage the third of its free firework displays in the school summer holidays to thanks customers for their support throughout the year.

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