Protests and lobbying have taken place for and against the improvements at East Beach, Shoebury (May 11).

The council listened to these and other advisers and the current improved position arrived at.

The areas now identified for parking were always areas where vehicles parked, some drivers often used the area irresponsibly as a race track to the detriment of other users.

The works carried out have made the area safer, at the same time improving the ambience for the benefit of visitors, residents and users of East Beach.

My understanding is that kitesurfers use the Blackgate Road facility for which they pay the parking fee. Their equipment can be laid out safely, rather than be mixed up with public car parking and, for us older ones, they present an atmosphere of the seaside with colourful sails and their obvious enjoyment.

Living next to East Beach, I have not been approached by anybody to petition for the relocation of the kitesurfers’ facility, nor would I agree with this.

I am surprised to read the person instigating this petition required anonymity himself, which to me fails to give credence to their argument. The East Beach improvements have been agreed and it’s time to move forward.

I say to those who still protest let’s enhance the area and encourage more family visitors to share this great facility.

David Beale
East Beach Park
Shoebury