Congratulations to Southend Council. In a poll of its citizens it may be voted the most incompetent in the South East.

They employed consultants at costs of tens of thousands of pounds to decide what to do with the pier, then back out of a deal with the chosen company.

Now they are using the latest spin - public consultation.

They printed a couple of the suggestions in the Echo: Getting more boats to visit the pier head. Brilliant, but why would any Thames captain with half a brain cell wish to call at a long empty wooden jetty? The view?

Next, environmental conservation and a nature reserve. This should draw at least half a dozen twitchers.

Now councillor Holland has said that now the pier has been cleared, Southend residents can appreciate how really stunning the views are.

The council continues to do nothing. If we could sell all the hot air generated by it the town would be rich.

Rochford and Castle Point had a lucky break in learning they won't be taken over by Southend Council.

Len Lierens
Southchurch Road
Southend