It’s been a busy and rewarding year for Clacton Pier with an emphasis on consolidating the visitor offer and staff development.
The attraction continued to build on the three major projects carried out in 2023, with exciting improvements around the site going ahead as planned.
Discovery Bay soft play received its first refurbishment since it opened six years ago and one of the pier’s most popular rides, Twister got a makeover.
Investment in the arcade continued with 15 new amusement machines; and the west side roof was recovered costing tens of thousands of pounds to add extra weather-proofing and insulation.
Further work to create new modern office space, a meeting room and reception area was completed on the west side as part of an ongoing larger project.
General Manager Harry Peek said that the pier also invested in its main asset.
“Our staff were put at the very heart of our considerations and, as well as improved facilities, they received training and development and offered enhanced incentive schemes,” he added.
“This was all part of our efforts to improve levels in the consistency of service provided to the public.
“Our calendar of events was stronger than ever beginning with a February Frenzy at half term, followed shortly afterwards by an Easter Extravaganza. Jurassic Half Term saw amazing life-size dinosaurs roaming the attraction.
“No sooner than the main summer period was over we went into an extended Oktoberfest, a thrilling Halloween and the year has ended with our magical Christmas Festival and Santa’s Enchanted Grotto.”
The pier picked up a hat-trick of awards in 2024 – Best Family Attraction in Essex, Best Hospitality and Visitor Attraction in the Tendring4Growth Business Awards, and the first industry safety award to be handed out by ADIPS.
The attraction continued its involvement in the community by supporting Clacton Carnival, Tendring Scouts and Rays of Sunshine charity which supports seriously ill children. It also staged ten free fireworks displays across the year.
On top of that there were special free ride family days for the Emergency Services in June and the Armed Forces in September.
“Our owners Billy and Elliot Ball also celebrated 15 years since taking over the pier,” said Mr Peek.
“During that decade and a half they have made it their goal to restore the attraction to its former glory and that will continue into 2025 and for years to come with more exciting events in the pipeline. ”
Mr Peek added that it is recognised that January can be a tough time financially and as a thank you to loyal customers, the pier’s annual pass holders will be given free entry to Discovery Bay Soft Play from Monday to Friday from January 6 for the rest of the month.
For other customers there will be an early bird rate for Discovery Bay and the popular kids eat fee scheme will continue with a paid entry.
