AN £8 million renovation project to help secure the future of the Cliffs Pavilion has finally begun after a series of delays. 

Workers moved on to the site of the Westcliff theatre on Thursday as ambitious work to upgrade the restaurant and create a new entrance and lobby kicked off. 

The work was initially scheduled for January this year after Southend Council was handed £5.5 million in funding from the Government. 

However, concerns the contract could go over budget meant the council was forced to go out to tender a second time before appointing Rochford-based Auburn Group Limited to carry out the work. 

Start - Works to the Cliffs Pavilion have begun Start - Works to the Cliffs Pavilion have begun (Image: KIM TOBIN)

 

Now, Southend Council is confident the work will be completed next year in a bid to secure the Cliffs Pavilion’s future as the go-to theatre in the South East. 

The theatre will remain open as work is carried out. 

Labour councillor Matt Dent, responsible for culture, tourism and business, said: “The Cliffs Pavilion is a much-loved and respected venue across this region, and this project will give it a great boost.

“I am really pleased to see the work starting, and that the theatre can remain open during the work.

“I welcome the news that a south Essex company are carrying out the works and cannot wait to see works progress and the final product next year.”

The completed works will consist of an upgrade to the restaurant, a new entrance and lobby to improve the customer experience, upgraded ventilation, a new outdoor piazza and several other improvements to bars, toilets, lifts and other areas.

Theatre director Nick Parr said: “We’re delighted that the Cliffs Pavilion renovation is underway, and we welcome Auburn Group Limited on board as our new construction partner.

“However, it is business as usual, and we’d like to remind customers that the Cliffs Pavilion will remain open throughout the construction period.

“We’re excited about the venue’s future and can’t wait for residents to see the finished venue later next year.”

Auburn Group’s construction director Mike O’Dell added: “Anyone in Essex will know how iconic The Cliffs Pavilion is as a seafront architectural landmark defining Southend.

“Working on such a prominent building feels like a monumental moment in Auburn Group’s growth and evolution.

“We are beyond excited to start works this week, delivering a comprehensive refurbishment and extension that will enhance this beloved venue for future generations.”