Southend Pier:
175 years old and still going strong.
(As originally published in The Essex Enquirer 19th May 2005)
SOUTHEND-ON-SEA has many attractions but none can claim to be as synonymous with the popular seaside resort as the pier.
As the longest pleasure pier in the world, measuring 1.34 miles long, the landmark has attracted millions of visitors from all over the world since it was first built in 1830.
And over the years, Southend pier has faced countless of minor and major mishaps. From reconstruction work caused by collisions with boats, to a major fire in 1959, which completely destroyed the once popular Pier Pavilion.
In fact the Pier went on to suffer a number of fires, but each time it was rebuilt and attractions were replaced, with bowling alleys, cafes and amusement arcades all making appearances..
At one point the pier wes left with a 70-foot gap in between the old and new pier heads as, in 1986, the MV Kingsabbey sliced through the pier causing irrepairable damage to the boathouse.
However the most recent setback was in 1995 when another fire destroyed the bowling alley. But as always the pier was repaired and within a year it was entertaining the public again with fishing spots, pier trains and stunning views over the Thames Estuary.
Of course the piers long legasy of disasters has only contributed to making it more notorious, and despite years of damage the pier has always overcome adversity.
This is partly due to the substantial amount of money that has been ploughed into it, and partly due to the public's love for the landmark.
The love afair with Southend pier has even led to some visitors 'adopting a plank'. And for £50 you too can now own your very own piece of history, whilst also contributing to the continued development of the present structure.
Of course with summer fast approaching, visitors will be flocking to the pier to enjoy bracing walks and an ice cream at the end. But the award-winning pier also offers the chance to learn more about the history of the structure and a museum dedicated to the Southend pier is located at the shore end of the pier..
It seems that the pier has something to offer the whole family and perhaps this is the reason why it has become one of the most important features of Southend's unique heritage..