SOUTHEND'S landmark Kursaal amusement centre has been given a new lease of life, as a local businessman plans to host weddings, music gigs and private parties there.

The 200-capacity function room on the first floor of the iconic building has been taken over by club promoter Matthew Chambers, 30, from Westcliff.

He has already planned a reunion gig for one of Southend's most famous pop groups, the Kursaal Flyers, and it is hoped other bands will take to the stage.

Mr Chambers has been a club promoter for the past two years, but felt it was getting too competitive and he wanted a new project.

He said: "It has become plain to me there was a shortage of function rooms in Southend, because it is becoming increasingly difficult to find anywhere to hold events.

"The Kursaal is part of Southend's history and it needs to be restored to its former glory.

"I am looking at putting on mainly private functions here with some public ones.

"I have been surprised at the amount of interest we have already had just through word of mouth in the last few days, since we have signed the lease.

"I think having your wedding at a venue with the history and style of the Kursaal could be really exciting for many couples.

"This is a big venture for us and we have already invested thousands of pounds in it. We are determined to make this one of the best venues in the town for all sorts of functions."

Work has started on two rooms on the first floor and Mr Chambers has booked in an engagement party for this Saturday.

He has also applied for a licence to hold civil wedding ceremonies in the smaller 50-capacity room.

Mr Chambers is working in partnership with his wife Catherine, 29, helped by Patrick Sobota, whose family own a number of restaurants in the area.

The Kursaal complex is owned by property company the Trehaven group.

Director Charles Alison said he was delighted things were starting to move to attract more firms to the Kursaal.

He added: "It has been quite a struggle to get things moving, but I'm pretty sure we will soon be seeing more new tenants move in, and hopefully with the same enthusiasm as Mr Chambers."

Mr Alison said Trehaven was in discussions with a company which was planning to take over the main part of the first floor, below the Rendezvous Casino.

"This is an 18,000sq ft area which has never been fitted out, but hopefully there will be movement here as well in the new future."

Nigel Holdcroft, Southend Council leader, said: "The Kursaal is an iconic building in Southend, and after the pier, probably symbolises the town to those who don't know it."

  • Trehaven is also holding a reception at the Kursaal for prospective tenants, the council and local businesses on Tuesday, May 13, between 3pm and 6pm.

Anyone interested in booking the function rooms can call 07515 638713.