SATURDAY night’s firework display has been confirmed to be 100 per cent going ahead after sewage issues and repair works had raised doubts the event could proceed.

To end Southend’s first ever Halloween parade, a firework display will be held on the beach at 7.30pm.

The display, organised by Southend BID, was confirmed to definitely be going ahead by Southend Council yesterday.

Last Saturday the fireworks show was cancelled for the third time in four weeks as Anglian Water worked to repair an outfall – pipe leading into the sea – near Caper Road which was leaking sewage into the water.

As a result, the council was forced to close a stretch of the beach to keep residents safe and plans were mooted to move the display to Leigh.

However, it was this week confirmed the display would finally go ahead on Saturday, despite the fact Anglian Water repair works are still ongoing.

A council spokesperson said: “With the ongoing Anglian Water works in the area, the council and Southend BID are carefully monitoring the situation with public safety remaining the top priority.”

The council has since formally written to Anglian Water to demand a face-to-face sit down to lobby the water firm to invest in maintaining its pipelines and infrastructure to prevent future water surface flooding and sewage leaks.

Residents attending the Halloween festival – organised independently of the fireworks by the council, Southend Community and Southend Tourism Partnership – are urged to arrive 10 to 15 mins before the 5pm start time.

Cllr Carole Mulroney, cabinet member for environment, culture, tourism and planning, said: “The highly anticipated Halloween Parade is nearly here, and with a range of performers, floats and fireworks, there really is something for everyone in your family.

“Thank you to the Southend Community Events team for organising the event, along with all those who made the idea a reality. I would encourage all those in attendance to stay safe, socially distance and wear a mask if possible.”