Clacton
Pier is gearing up for a year of events.
Bosses
at the iconic seaside attraction are drawing up plans to increase the number of
events staged during 2024 – as well as enhancing those already on the calendar.
Oktoberfest
was introduced for the first time in 2023 and was a huge success with crowds
packing into a marquee on the forecourt over two weekends.
That
is now going to be extended to three weekends and will also include Friday
evenings, making nine days in all – rather than four – and a larger marquee.
The
team is also looking at least one big new summer event to be added to the
programme.
Others
such as February half term, Easter, Halloween, and Christmas will all be improved
to attract more visitors.
Director
Billy Ball said it will be the first time since he and his brother, Elliot had
taken over the pier in 2009 that they have not embarked on a major new project.
“However,
one of our attractions will be significantly upgraded and other projects – such
as a new workshop, staff offices and training facilities – will be completed,”
he added.
“We
have decided the emphasis in 2024 will be around our events which we aim to
make bigger and better than ever.
“This
hopefully will all help to bring in new visitors to the pier, the town and
district.”
There
will also be a renewed effort to attract funding for the future renovation of
the Jolly Roger Theatre.
Mr
Ball said the last year saw a major new attraction in Jurassic Pier open up,
along with investment in the Boardwalk Bar and Grill as well as the return of
the fully-refurbished Waltzer ride.
There
was also a major focus on staff – enhancing the management team and the
introduction of new training programmes and incentives.
Looking
back, Mr Ball said it had been a difficult financial 12 months due in part to
long periods of bad weather, especially through the school summer holidays.
The
on-going cost of living crisis had also been a challenge along with an energy
price hike which took effect towards the end of the summer.
“However,
we worked hard to offer new value which helped to maintain a steady footfall
and cushion what could have been a very tough year financially,” he added.
“The
previous five years of investment in new indoor attractions also stood us in
good stead when the weather was poor.”
Details
of the enhanced events programme will be announced in the coming weeks.
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