Southend Pier to Reopen to Public

June 28, 2020

Southend’s iconic pier is to reopen with a number of social distancing and cleaning measures in place to keep visitors safe and well.

The world’s longest pleasure pier has been out of use since lockdown for the Coronavirus pandemic began back in March. With further easing of lockdown announced by the Prime Minister on Tuesday 23 June, including reduction to 1 metre plus when social distancing, the council is pleased to announce the official reopening date as Monday 6 July. The pier will be open from 10.15am to 9pm seven days a week. Last entry is 8pm.

There are various new measures in place, including a one-way walking system, sanitizing stations, signage and plastic screens. Takeaway services will be open everyday offering drinks, snacks, ice cream and fish and chips. Fishermen will also be welcomed back on the Pier with fishing only permitted at the end of the Pier, and under social distancing measures.

Unfortunately, the trains will not be in operation due to difficulties with social distancing when on-board the carriages and ensuring public safety. This will be continuously reviewed and will follow Government guidance.

Cllr Kevin Robinson, cabinet member for business, culture and tourism, said: “When people visit Southend, they want the whole experience – fish and chips, fun at the arcades and attractions, and a trip down the world’s longest pleasure pier.

“I am delighted to say we can now welcome visitors back to the pier, although not without a rigorous cleaning schedule, and other measures to ensure all visitors can safely enjoy the pier.

“Unfortunately, we cannot run pier train services at this time given the challenges associated with social distancing on the trains. We will, however, continue to monitor Government advice and we aim to have the trains back up and running as soon as it is safe to do so.

“Whilst we continue to adapt to the new normal, it is really great news to have the pier back up and running and a further boost to the seafront at this time.”

Please visit www.southend.gov.uk/pier for further information.