A POPULAR Pizza Express is going through a full refurbishment after closing its doors suddenly.

Rayleigh residents took to social media to express shock and frustration that the Pizza Express, in Rayleigh High Street, had shut for an unexplained reason, with the signage taken down and the doors shut to guests.

However, it has been revealed that the restaurant is set to reopen later in January with a new look for families, friends and couples to enjoy.

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A spokesman for Pizza Express said: “Pizza Express Rayleigh is set to reopen on 27th January after undergoing a makeover as part of the brand’s nationwide refurbishment programme, which aims to create lively and uplifting dining destinations for families, friends and couples.

“The team at Pizza Express Rayleigh is delighted to be welcoming diners back to the restaurant as they serve pizza with pizzazz.”

The restaurant currently has a sign in the window informing of a change to the premises license, to vary the layout of the premises in accordance with plans supplied by the applicant.