Seafront traders and customers have hailed the reopening of an iconic venue.

The Kursaal bowling alley in Southend has reopened after an entertainment company stepped in following its sudden closure.

Paul Thompson, 44, owner of Pebbles One cafe, of Southend seafront said: “It’s good news for the town.

“I think it shows the difficult trading conditions are along the seafront and in the High Street.

“It’s good to have an operating business at the Kursaal as it is such a historic building.”

Joan Tiney, 68, chair of Southend Seafront Traders’ Association, also welcomed the news.

She said: “It’s sad it closed in the first place.

“It’s brilliant new owner has taken over.”

Disco Bowl Limited has reopened the bowling alley, soft play area, arcade and laser quest business on Southend seafront.

It comes after the previous owners of the business, MFA Bowl Limited, went into administration.

The new owners said the company was pleased to reopen the iconic landmark building in Southend.

Group managing director, Pete Terry, said: “I was saddened to see the recent news regarding the Kursaal, but I’m now proud to announce that we have reopened this historic building.

“I can also announce that we will honour all bookings made at the venue.

“We look forward to preparing the Kursaal to be a fabulous family destination ready for the summer season and adding to the appeal of this popular facility”

Perry Mountford, complex director at Kursaal, said there are exciting times ahead.

He said: “Having such a grand venue within Southend, certainly attracts tourists and visitors to the area.

“I look forward to operating alongside Disco Bowl, and see great things coming shortly.”

The venue closed suddenly last Monday.

It was announced it had gone into administration and London based consultancy firm Duff and Phelps was then drafted in to deal with the business.

The entertainment park, boasts a bowling alley, a laser tag arena, an arcade area and a soft play zone, has become a popular spot for children’s birthday parties.