SOUTHEND’S new pier trains are set to arrive in just over a week’s time... with the new models nearly ready to trundle their way down the town’s top attraction.
Bosses are now finalising delivery plans for the first of the new eco-friendly heritage cream and green pier trains, which will arrive the week beginning September 27.
It is unclear when the trains will be officially in use, with staff set to be trained to use the new models on-site.
Carole Mulroney, councillor for tourism, said: “Once fully up and running, it will be a fantastic new attraction to our wonderful iconic landmark and I am sure they will attract more people, which will support businesses and the local economy.
“The present trains continue to run and for those who enjoy the journey and any railway enthusiasts, the opportunity is there to ride the existing diesel trains, which have been on our pier for 35 years.”
The existing diesel trains have been in operation on the pier since 1986.
The new trains include additional capacity, USB charging points, and have state-of-the-art audio visual equipment.
Read more:
New Southend Pier trains delayed as paint fault means they will have to be re-done
Darren Latimer, who owns four food and drink huts and the crazy golf on Southend Pier, is confident the new models will continue to help attract visitors from across the globe to Southend.
Southend Pier welcomed over 74,000 visitors in August.
Mr Latimer said: “It’s absolutely fantastic news, I think they’re looking to run one new train to start with and take one of the old ones off, so there’s a choice whether you want to get on the old or new model.
“You could go up on the old trains and come back on the new one, which I think is a really nice touch.
“The pier really is a worldwide attraction, and is so well known as the world’s longest pleasure pier. We get people coming from overseas to visit.
“The season has also changed now too where the kids are back to school, but we’re seeing grandparents pop down with their grandchildren.
“Whether it’s for the historic value or the views, our pier has the whole package. I’m so pleased to see the new pier trains are under way.”
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereLast Updated:
Report this comment Cancel