The iconic Essex seaside attraction, Clacton Pier, spent the year updating its offering on a three-fold front, whilst also celebrating 15 years under Ball brothers ownership. Last week the pier reported on a busy schedule of investment during 2024 and stepped up its aspirations as a year round attraction.

Management at Clacton Pier spent the run-up to Christmas reflecting on a trifecta of ongoing reinvestment efforts.

2024 saw the attraction’s Discovery Bay softplay centre receive its first refurbishment since it opened in 2018, whilst one of the pier’s most popular rides, Twister, also got a makeover.

Completing the treble investment in the pier’s amusements zone saw the addition of 15 new amusement machines, with management also pumping tens of thousands of pounds in extra-proofing and insulation of the arcade’s roof. 

Meanwhile, pier management have said that a similar amount of time and treasure was spent in honing the skillset of all onsite staff. 

“Our staff were put at the very heart of our considerations and, as well as improved facilities, they received training and development and offered enhanced incentive schemes,” remarked general manager Harry Peek. “This was all part of our efforts to improve levels in the consistency of service provided to the public.”

The close of the year, one in which the pier won a number of top-tier awards including Best Family Attraction in Essex, also marks the fifteenth anniversary of the pier’s takeover by brothers Billy and Elliot Ball. 

“During that decade and a half they have made it their goal to restore the attraction to its former glory,” Peek added. “[They] will continue this mission into 2025 and for years to come with more exciting events in the pipeline. ”