Earlier this week it was revealed that a historic watersports venue could return to Southend seafront as part of major plans to re-open the former marine activities centre alongside a new restaurant. 

The Southend Marine Activities Centre, on Eastern Esplanade, has been closed since 2016 when it was deemed to no longer be financially viable. 

It has remained empty for the last eight years but now exciting new plans have been submitted to Southend Council to bring the centre back to life in a huge boost to the seafront. 

Applicant Mehmet Hassan hopes to reinstate the centre and bring back watersports.

Under proposals submitted to Southend Council, a new restaurant including inside and outside seating could also be created too. 

As well as the water sports and restaurant, plans are also proposing to include new indoor activity rooms, used for games and electronic/VR games.

The centre is owned by Southend Council and was listed on the market for rent last November. 

According to the plans, Mehmet wants to promote water sports to young children and has revealed that all children under the age of nine and disabled children will be entitled to free tuition.

In order for this facility to provide the very best standards, Mehmet has struck a deal with watersports instructors in the area. 

The centre closed in 2016 because it was no longer financially viable to run, and applicant Mehmet Hassan is confident adding a restaurant alongside water sports will help make it a success. 

The once-popular centre provided training in sailing, windsurfing, jet skiing, kayaking power-boating and other water sports.

It was also used for children’s multi-activity courses and facilities for visiting school groups.