The plans will be considered by the Development Control Committee in the coming weeks and if approved it is hoped that the redesign will take place later in 2017. £300,000 of capital funding was approved as part of the 2017/18 budget to help ensure the plans become reality if approved.
The extension would offer a much more attractive, modern and larger entrance to the pier, helping to attract more visitors to the seafront and the iconic landmark.
Cllr Ann Holland, Executive Councillor for Culture, Tourism and the Economy said: “The plans to re-design the entrance to the pier are our way of showing our intentions to improve and protect of one of Southend-on-Sea’s most iconic landmarks.
“By proposing these improvements, which would be part of a continued and multi-million pound investment in the pier, we hope to make the entrance more attractive and appealing to visitors, and help develop a sustainable income for years to come.
“These plans are carefully thought out to improve the quality of an important part of our history and future. The existing entrance is out-dated and requires modernising, and these plans propose doing just that.”
The plans show how the pier entrance would be extended and the space re-modelled to provide areas for exhibitions, refreshments and ice creams. The proposals also include an access ramp to make the entrance fully accessible for all.