Approximate Population: 53,000

Clacton pier was the first building of the new resort of Clacton-on-Sea. It officially opened on 27 July 1871 and was 160 yards in length and 4 yards wide. The pier was originally built as a landing point for goods and passengers but soon became popular for promenading.

By the 1890s Clacton was becoming an increasingly popular destination for day trippers and in 1893 the pier was lengthened to 1180ft (360m), and entertainment facilities including a pavilion and a waiting room were added. In 1922 the pier was bought by Ernest Kingsman and remained in the ownership of the Kingsman family until 1971. E

rnest Kingsman added some major developments to the pier including; two theatres, a dance hall, a casino, an open air swimming pool and a roller coaster. From 1971 to 1985 dolphins and killer whales were kept and displayed on the pier, on the site of the former open air swimming pool.

In March 2009 the pier was purchased by the Clacton Pier Company, who installed a new focal point on the pier, a 50ft helter-skelter. The helter-skelter was originally built in 1949 and used in a travelling show. It was featured in a 2008/2009 Marks & Spencer’s television advert.

Chartered Surveyors Clacton Essex

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