The first serious bid to redevelop Southend Pier since last October's destructive blaze includes plans for a theatre, conference centre, museum and nightclub.

Southend businessman Tony Garner's latest plans could be discussed by the council within a matter of weeks.

The entrepreneur's company, Epic World Leisure, is pushing ahead with his controversial Swine rollercoaster on the pierhead, alongside a theatre, conference centre, amusement arcade and restaurants.

There would also be a new south station for the pier railway.

On the site of the former bowling alley, on the shore end, Mr Garner proposes a new two-storey, pavilion-style building with a mezzanine level which would include a cafe, a replacement for the pier museum, a new tourist information centre, restaurant and nightclub.

The multimillion-pound plans would also include upgrading the railway track and equipment.

Mr Garner said: "These plans have actually been with the council since earlier this year, but we have had to wait for an environmental impact assessment.

"The fact it is now actually on the plans list is a small step forward for the scheme, but there is still a long road ahead before we know whether we will be given the backing of the council.

"In view of the fire last year and the situation on the pier, we believe it is a golden opportunity to progress with the scheme and we have the funding available to achieve it."

However, Adventure Island boss Philip Miller said he would rather the pier focused on the needs of local people, rather than tourists.

He said: "If I was dealing with the pier I would put forward a scheme which would appeal to local people before anyone else. The tourists will follow."

David Garston, councillor in charge of planning, said: "We welcome any new schemes which help in the regeneration of the town, especially if they are from local businesspeople.

"However, there is a democratic process which has to be carried out and it would be wrong to prejudge any planning application until this has been completed."