A LONG-AWAITED lagoon that will allow visitors to swim in the sea even when the tide is out will officially open tomorrow.

The new artificial shallow pool at Southend’s Three Shells Beach is expected to become a major seafront attraction, bringing visitors to the town and boosting the economy.

The £1.95million project, which has been nearly three years in the making, was funded by the Coastal Communities Fund, Southend Council and the Stockvale group, which owns Adventure Island.

Ann Holland, councillor responsible for culture, tourism and the economy, said: “I hope that residents and visitors alike will use this wonderful free facility to experience a dip in the sea, whether the tide is in or not.

“Our healthy tourism economy supports around 7,000 jobs, but we should never be complacent. That is why we continually look to evolve and improve our seafront offer and seek external funding and private investment to do this.”

The council put forward £600,000 for the project and £100,000 came from Stockvale, with the remaining £1.25million secured from the Government fund.

More than 14,000 cubic tonnes of granite was used to mark out the new football pitch-sized lagoon, which is 1.1 metres at its deepest.

Marc Miller, managing director of Stockvale, said: “We believe it will prove very popular for families, who will be able to enjoy the beach and water, all day, every day, throughout the year.

“In addition to the wonderful lagoon and beach, visitors will also be getting much needed toilet facilities, showers and landscaping.

“This prestigious development will provide a boost to local businesses, which will without doubt provide confidence, further investment and jobs.”

“This will help Southend to keep one step ahead of other resorts and certainly give visitors something to come back for time and time again.”

Under the plans, the ageing jetty at the beach is also being replaced for use by the Alexandra Yacht Club and Lower Thames Rowing Club.

Linda McKay, commodore of the club, said: “The lagoon is not only an exciting addition to the town, but it has been developed to provide safe sailing off the foreshore.”

Philip Miller, executive chairman of Adventure Island, added: “With Southend being officially the warmest and driest place in the UK, we are looking forward to a great summer.

“Adventure Island is a huge draw for many visitors – as the brand new Three Shells lagoon opening this week is sure to also be – and we look forward to them visiting us.”

The lagoon will be officially unveiled at midday tomorrow.