THE first firm has moved in to the redeveloped Canvey Casino site.

Duration Windows, a successful Canvey manufacturer, has brought its exhibition centre called Grand Design to Casino Parade.

Other new shops are also set to follow while flats built above them are also finished.

Canvey county and borough councillor Ray Howard said: “It was sad when the casino site had to be demolished, but times moved on and things changed.

“The development does look very attractive and it really has boosted that area.

“All the flats are finished and people have moved in now and businesses are just beginning to start opening - I believe all the units have been let.

“Duration Windows is a credit to Canvey Island and I’m delighted to hear about its new premises on the seafront and I wish them well there.”

Duration Windows have moved to the site from its former base at the Knightswick Centre, in Furtherwick Road.

The move is due to customer demand and the need to display a number of new and existing products.

Business partners Brian Chelton and Dennis Mitchell said the 3,000sq ft centre is not like a typical double-glazing showroom because no one takes money or commission there, it has been set up purely so people can look at what the firm has to offer.

Mr Chelton, managing director, said: “We’re pleased Grand Design is a part of the new development, it’s brought something different to the area.