Moves to bring an exciting new high quality attraction to Clacton Pier have
taken a major step forward.
An application has been drawn up to allow the permanent installation of
a 30 metre plus observation wheel.
The application has been submitted to Tendring District Council (TDC)
and seeks to permit the structure to be sited anywhere within the landmark
attraction’s boundary.
Structural engineers have already assessed the Pier’s ability to
comfortably support the ride and the initial site has been chosen.
A supplier has been confirmed who will provide the attraction, which
will be ready to operate once COVID restrictions are lifted.
Pier director Billy Ball said the addition of an observation wheel has
been part of the owners’ detailed business plans since taking over the
attraction in March 2009, almost 12 years ago.
“We have now tested the water, appointed a planning consultant and put a
full planning application in to the council which we hope will receive
approval,” he said.
“We must continue to invest in improving our offer to maintain visitor
numbers and to sustain the revenue that is important to retain the Pier as a
vital heritage asset.
“The Pier – which was the first building in the new town of Clacton – is
150 years old this July and the wheel, alongside other new attractions such as
the new Looping Star, is a great way to mark this historic anniversary.”
Mr Ball added that the wheel is a contemporary structure which compliments
the attractive art-deco style of the Pier frontage and will provide another
elegant addition to the Clacton seafront.
“The success and longevity of attractions such as this have been proven
repeatedly around the UK’s most prominent seaside towns and major city centres,”
he said.
“The world’s first wheel was introduced in Chicago in 1893 and the idea
has stood the test of time.
“Securing the option of permanent planning permission will be a way of
further guaranteeing another 150 year of success for Clacton.”
Ends
