A BURGER joint and cocktail bar that has been serving residents of Southend for almost a decade has been placed on the market as its future hangs in the balance.

Henry Burgers, in Leigh, opened in 2014 and brings a North American and European cuisine to a speakeasy-styled cocktail bar.

However, juicy burger and hot dog lovers may no longer be able to get their hands on the mouthwatering offerings at the eatery as bosses have now confirmed it is being sold.

It comes after the 1,506-square-foot property was listed for sale on Rightmove for £600,000.

The Echo was told by Henry Burgess, the owner of Henry Burgers, the property is up for sale and its future is down to new owners.

At this time, the two-floor retail property, marketed by Ayers and Cruiks, has not been sold.

Daniel Nelson, councillor responsible for economic growth and investment, said: “We are very sorry to see them go, but I wish the owners of Henry Burgers all the very best.

“With this, we are hopeful the new owners will have plans to bring another offering.”

The news comes as the city has bid farewell to a number of stores in recent times, including Hamlet Court Road’s Boots store.

Mr Nelson added: “We cannot deny the cost of energy from the Ukraine war is having a huge impact on businesses.

“We have so much to offer in Southend, and we will do all we possibly can to work with businesses across the whole city.

“However, we have an amazing seafront and shops, which are still thriving, and we will do our bit as a council to keep great businesses in the city.”

Henry Burgers launched in August 2014 with the aim of bringing something unique to Leigh.

According to the website, the idea was to create a food and bar culture reaching from Brooklyn to the Balearics.

The mission of the eatery was to provide quality produce and a different experience.

As well as food, creamy blended shakes and ice-cold alcoholic beverages, Henry Burgers sells a cocktail shake-and-strain kit and T-shirts.