The owners of a popular seaside pub have thanked Tendring District Council (TDC) for a £20,000 grant, which has helped fund a series of external improvements.
Landlord Chris Wilson bought The Seaspan in Wash Lane, Clacton, alongside his wife, Stephanie, and mum, Rachel, after the three fell in love with the place on their first viewing.
Shortly after taking over, they successfully applied for a shopfront grant from TDC to fund improvements to the front of their pub. This supplemented their own investment and has made a huge difference to the look of the building.
The works were completed just in time for the family’s one-year anniversary as owners.
Chris, who enjoyed a successful career in the motor industry before buying the pub, said: “The grant has had a massive impact on our business.
“It has enabled us to speed up the other refurbishments we had planned and has made a real difference to how the building looks.
“People now know we are here.
“We are seeing so many new faces as a result of what is now a really good first impression.
“We are so grateful for the support.”
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The Seaspan was once part of the Butlins estate and was used as lodgings for the stars who performed at the holiday camp in its heyday.
TDC has supported 79 businesses in the district with shopfront grants worth more than £720,000 through different government funding streams.
Some grant funding is still available from the Community Regeneration Partnership for businesses in Jaywick Sands.
Councillor Ivan Henderson, TDC Deputy Leader and Portfolio Holder for Economic Growth, Regeneration and Tourism, said: “Each of these grants makes a real difference to local businesses in the district, and it is fantastic that we have been able to support so many, including The Seaspan.
“Some funding is still available for businesses based in Jaywick Sands, so I would urge anyone in the area to speak to our Tendring4Growth team to find out more.
“Free, expert support is available to help you with the application, as well as assistance with the planning permission process if required.”
For more information on the success of the scheme and details of how to apply click here.
