A TREE-LINED lagoon could be created at Three Shells Beach, in Southend, under new plans.

The lagoon would allow children to bathe all day long and would be almost the size of a football pitch.

Seafront traders, councillors and tourism officials have backed the lagoon, which would stretch across the muddy foreshore in front of the beach in Western Esplanade, almost to the Alexandra Yacht Club.

Dave Rayment, owner of the Pebbles Two kiosk, in Marine Parade, said it would be a real boost to the seafront.

He said: “It’s wonderful. It will attract people. It’s land that can be used to bring families – local and tourists – to the area.”

A 120-metre wall, up to three metres above sea level, would be built using sheet piles, rock-filled baskets and boulders on the foreshore.

The lagoon inside the wall would be topped up by waves when the tide is in.

Palm trees would be planted on the pavement around the Three Shells Cafe and a toilet block built at the western end of the beach.

The Stockvale Group, which owns a number of seafront attractions, including Adventure Island, the Sealife Adventure, restaurant Sands and the Three Shells Cafe, has put forward the major development.

The plans are considered so significant Southend councillors are to be called in for a behind-closed-doors briefing on them, the Echo can reveal.

Milton ward councillors are divided over the plans, with Labour’s Julian Ware-Lane opposed to the loss of the foreshore, which provides a valuable habitat for wildlife.

But Tory Jonathan Garston backed the economic boost. Mr Garston, who is also councillor responsible for planning, said: “It’s massively busy in the summer and families are always looking for new attractions.”

Mr Ware-Lane said: “As a general point, I am concerned about any development on the foreshore.

“This is a precious resource and every development nibbles away at this.

“That it is still largely unspoilt is a big selling point for the town, and is an immeasurable source of pleasure to thousands of residents and visitors.”

Scott Dolling, the council’s group manager for economy and tourism, said: “Creating an area where the water can be enjoyed at low tide will provide a good opportunity for Southend.

“I’m sure be welcomed by many visitors and businesses.’’ Mr Dowling added: “Our strategic direction is to increase the reasons for people to stay longer and outside the traditional season.

“This proposal would potentially add new reasons and longer stays.”

The Stockvale Group declined to comment.