NEW electric pier trains will be unveiled in a months time, with carriages from former trains to be installed at the end of Southend’s pier as seating.

Southend Council is set to take delivery of the new electric trains, with a heritage green and cream design, on July 19.

Training and installation means the official launch date on Southend’s iconic pleasure pier is likely to be at least 10 days later.

However, it has been revealed the former trains will remain part of Southend Pier, with carriages installed on the pier as seating to shelter residents from the weather.

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Ian Gilbert, leader of Southend Council, said: “It’s hard to get and exact date, but it will probably be finished in mid July to late July.

“I think its great news that they will be here during the summer season.

“There has been a huge amount of interest so I am sure they will be a great attraction. We’re all really excited about the project.”

Initially, it had been hoped the new pier trains would be up and running for spring, but delays have seen it pushed back with bosses now hoping for a summer boost from the trains.

The council is spending £3.25million on the pier improvements, which includes plans for a new restaurant and bar at the end of the pier, costing £336,000.

The restaurant will be built as part of the Royal Pavilion conversion.

The delays in the train project are understood to have been down to problems in getting hold of parts, caused by the third lockdown earlier this year.

However the new carriages have all been completed.

Martin Terry, councillor in charge of community safety and pier operations, added: “This is a really exciting time, and in time for the school holidays.

“A couple of carriages will be used at the end of the pier for shelter with seats, like a waiting area. It’s a great idea. The new pier trains are a bright light. The designs are lovely, and will take visitors back to years gone by.”

Green and cream liveried pier trains previously ran on the pier from 1949 to 1978.