CANVEY seafront is on the up, with two new attractions due to open in time for summer.

Fantasy Island closed for refurbishment two years ago, but the indoor and outdoor entertainment centre will open its doors once again this weekend.

Monico Leisure, which owns the complex, is also looking to open an American diner in Eastern Esplanade.

It is hoped the regeneration of the seafront will help promote Canvey as a place for families to visit on holidays or day trips.

There have previously been calls for investment to prevent the decline of the island’s beaches.

Fantasy Island is home to a number of attractions, including dodgems, the waltzer, water walkerz, chair-o-planes, pirate ship, a safari train, crazy golf and an adult gaming centre.

Derek Gray, director at Monico Leisure, which also runs the Monico pub and Cheeky Monkeys indoor play centre, said: “It’s an exciting time for all of us at Fantasy Island with our newly refurbished amusement park opening again this weekend.

“Working together with Castle Point Council and our town council on a small regeneration plan for the people of Castle Point, we closed our amusement park two years ago.

“We wanted to concentrate on other seafront projects, such as Sugar Rays, SS8 Lounge and the eagerly awaited Jimmy Macs American Dinner which we hope to open this month.

“Our amusement park was put to the back of the queue, until now.

“There are lots of new attractions rides for all ages we are going to cater for everyone’s needs.

“People have said to us they can’t wait for us to open again as they have missed us being open so we are back.

“It feels fantastic for us all, plus we are creating a few more jobs for people.

“It’s great news.”

Fantasy Island was a popular attraction amongst families before it closed two years ago.

New rides have been installed ahead of the reopening, and the fun park will now operate with a wristband system.

The news has been welcomed by islanders.

Mum Jane Dobson, who used to be a regular visitor to the seafront attraction, said: “I’m pleased it’s opening again.

“I was interested to see if it was being opened by the same owners or if someone else had taken it over.

“My kids love the parks and it’s a good attraction for families.

“I would recommend it to anyone with young children.”