Clacton Pier’s owners have expressed their relief at not having to close
their business under the latest Government Covid restrictions.
Tendring remains in Tier 2 while most of Essex was moved into Tier 4 at
the weekend in a bid to help combat the virus.
The announcement by Prime Minister Boris Johnson came just as the
landmark attraction was gearing up for a busy last week of its North Pole
Experience.
Director Billy Ball said he felt very fortunate that the district had
escaped changes which could have forced it to shut the doors.
“While the number of Covid cases in the area suggested we would not be
put into a higher tier, you never know what’s going to happen,” he said.
“It is really good news for businesses in Tendring that they can remain
operational and make the most of the festive period.
“We have lots of families booked in for our North Pole Experience including
a visit to Santa and it would have been a blow if we had been forced to close
down at this time.
“There is no doubt it has been a very tough year for so many companies
and we are grateful to remain in Tier 2 – at least for the moment.”
Mr Ball added that the feedback on the Christmas festivities at the Pier
has been fantastic and it had been worth all the effort.
“Bearing in mind how difficult it has been – especially getting Covid
measures in place to keep staff and customers safe – it could not have gone
better,” he said.
“Many people have said that the North Pole Experience has been the best
ever on the Pier, and up there alongside normal city festive attractions. That
is great to hear.”
Mr Ball hopes that the situation will continue into the New Year.
“Our Cracker deal continues through until January 3 and families still
want to have as much fun as they can, while staying safe,” he added.
“We all know there are more tough challenges ahead, but we can only hope
that 2021 will be a better year for us all.”
