Latest plan for Southend Pier is rejected by council (From Echo)

Latest plan for Southend Pier is rejected by council

12:30pm Friday 4th December 2009 in News

A BUSINESSMAN’S latest attempt to redevelop Southend Pier has been rejected by councillors.

Tony Garner’s scheme would have included the Swine rollercoaster, plus new entertainment and leisure facilities at both ends of the pier.

By 11 votes to two, the plans were turned down by the council’s development control committee, after officers recommended refusal of the scheme.

Committee chairman Brian Kelly (Con, Southchurch) said: “Even if the plan was approved, it would not mean it would go ahead, as it would need landlord’s consent from the council, which would not be forthcoming.”

Liz Day (Con, West Shoebury) said she would support the proposal, because it was a futuristic plan for the pier.

She added: “I believe it is an absolutely brilliant plan for colour and glass, which will be great for the town as a whole and will bring more people to the town.”

However, Alan Crystall (Lib Dem, Leigh) said he was concerned about the impact of noise from the 24-hour rollercoaster.

After the meeting, Mr Garner said: “It was an expected result, but we will continue to pursue our options.”