 Southend’s iconic pier has suffered a marred history in the past few decades.
The landmark, which is a grade II listed structure and the longest pleasure pier in the world, has been ravaged by fire and boat crashes.
Despite recent neglect, the pier still attracts 250,000 visitors a year, but the local authority is determined to improve the pier’s appearance.
The council have launched a national competition, run by the Landscape Institute and the RIBA for Southend, to redesign the pier.
The design brief states that the redevelop must “bring renewed vigor to the Pier Head” and further establish it as a “must-see destination for all visitors to the town.”
Councillor John Lamb, Southend’s executive councillor for enterprise, tourism and regeneration, said: “Since the fire occurred at the end of 2005, the council has pledged its commitment to seeing the town’s icon reinstated to its former glory.
“Work to restore the fire-damaged section of the pier started in September last year, and is expected to be completed by the end of next month.
“Ultimately, the winning design will develop the pier in a way that builds on the town’s cultural attractions and also makes the most of its important heritage.”
The deadline for expressions of interest is June 15. Teams must include an architect, a landscape architect and a structural engineer. The budget for the project is ÂŁ5 million, whilst the four shortlisted teams who will be selected to develop their designs will receive ÂŁ4,000. A winner will be announced in August.
