CASTLE Point MP Rebecca Harris is firmly behind an application for two Canvey beaches to be awarded blue flag status, which could spark a regeneration of the island as a tourist attraction.

The application, which was discussed by the council last night, would cement Concord and Thorney Bay beaches’ reputation for being clean, well kept and environmentally sound.

Mrs Harris has been supportive of the idea, stating that the award could see more visitors coming to the island as well as bringing more residents from the island to the seaside.

She said: “I think it is right they should be talking about this and anything that is bigging up Canvey is going to be good for the island.

“Canvey has had a huge amount of investment on the seafront and it is fantastic this could be added to the beaches.

“We are promoting the whole of Canvey and having the blue flag could bring in extra money for traders there.

“Anything that increases business on Canvey is a good thing.”

She added that the regeneration of Canvey’s seafront status could also attract more visitors from Southend, and ensure more residents stay on the island to enjoy their leisure time rather than travelling further afield.

She said: “It is not just about bringing people onto the island but also reminding people how great Canvey is, that these things are all on their doorstep and that they do not need to move off the island.”

Paul Varker, councillor for Hadleigh, has led the drive for the blue flag application to be considered by the council.

He said: “Everybody who visits Canvey Island is impressed by the dramatic improvements to the beaches at both Thorney Bay and Concord Beach.

“I think the volunteers at Baywatch and Friends of Concord Beach deserve huge credit for their efforts and I am hopeful that with the council’s support we can work towards achieving blue flag recognition for the beaches.”

Ray Howard, councillor for Canvey West, was also supportive of the Baywatch and Friends of Concord Beach’s work in caring for both of the beaches.

He said: “I was born here and I have spent 50 years in the public eye. Times have changed considerably and what the two groups have achieved has been so important to making Canvey the tourist attraction it is today.

“There is a strict protocol that an application like this has to be abided by but I am confident that this application will be looked upon favourably and our officers can begin to investigate it soon.”

Both councillors and Mrs Harris are confident that the application will be successful and will be the next chapter in Canvey seafront’s regeneration.