From the Echo: September 27, 2013
COUNCIL bosses want a private company brought in to run Southend Marine Activities Centre.
The seafront site is making a loss, prompting Southend Council to consider expressions of interest from potential bidders.
They have been tasked with coming up with projects to invest in and expand the centre.
The council hopes creation of cafes and restaurants at the site in Eastern Esplanade could give it a new lease of life.
The complex provides schools and youth groups with water sports training, including canoeing, windsurfing, powerboat driving and jet skiing. It also boasts a training centre for the Royal Yachting Association.
The council remained tightlipped about how much cash is being lost by the centre, but confirmed it was in the red.
Derek Jarvis, Tory councillor for tourism, said: “There has been some interest in the centre from potential bidders, which is being assessed. It’s loss-making, so naturally the council wants to avoid further costs and believes private sector entrepreneurship can play a lead part in its future.”
The marketing brochure, created by agents Ayres & Cruiks, said: “Proposals are sought to enhance the current offer and an operator who brings a fresh commercial approach, ensuring an exciting and vibrant watersports provision going forward. Proposals that might include other additional, complementary uses to enhance the offer are welcomed.”
COUNCIL bosses want a private company brought in to run Southend Marine Activities Centre.
The seafront site is making a loss, prompting Southend Council to consider expressions of interest from potential bidders.
They have been tasked with coming up with projects to invest in and expand the centre.
The council hopes creation of cafes and restaurants at the site in Eastern Esplanade could give it a new lease of life.
The complex provides schools and youth groups with water sports training, including canoeing, windsurfing, powerboat driving and jet skiing. It also boasts a training centre for the Royal Yachting Association.
The council remained tightlipped about how much cash is being lost by the centre, but confirmed it was in the red.
Derek Jarvis, Tory councillor for tourism, said: “There has been some interest in the centre from potential bidders, which is being assessed. It’s loss-making, so naturally the council wants to avoid further costs and believes private sector entrepreneurship can play a lead part in its future.”
The marketing brochure, created by agents Ayres & Cruiks, said: “Proposals are sought to enhance the current offer and an operator who brings a fresh commercial approach, ensuring an exciting and vibrant watersports provision going forward. Proposals that might include other additional, complementary uses to enhance the offer are welcomed.”
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