NEW safety railings installed as part of a £52,000 project to improve a Canvey pool have rusted after just a few days.

Concerned seasiders have already spotted more than 100 spots of rust on the hand rails, which were installed around the tidal paddling pool at Concord Beach over the weekend.

Castle Point Council is spending £52,000 on safety improvements at the pool. The vast majority of the cash was spent on the railings.

The authority believes the rust formed around areas which were not properly painted. Cont-ractor NPS has been ordered to repaint them.

However, some people were concerned the damage has already been done.

Lea Swann, who owns a cafe at the beach, said: “I’m not sure if it’s the contractor or the council to blame, but for it to have rusted so quickly is a complete mess.

“Let’s face it, it’s just another bodged job on the island.

“The real issue is taxpayers’ money has paid for these railings.”

Janice Payne, Castle Point councillor for Canvey South ward, thinks stainless steel railings should have been used.

She added: “We are putting stainless steel benches elsewhere on the island.

“The seawater has got under the paintwork now. I’m not sure repainting the railings will make any difference.”

An NPS spokeswoman said stainless steel was deemed too costly due to a worldwide shortage. She added: “The paint system used is specifically designed for use in situations where it will be immersed in tidal salt water.

“Any panels with defective welds or water ingress will be replaced.

“A full inspection to cover all areas of the handrail, not just those showing signs of early corrosion, has been arranged.

“This work is being undertaken at no additional cost to the council.”

The railings are covered by a 15-year guarantee.