A MAJOR £1million plan to improve Clacton’s historic seafront pavilion, including a new children’s water park, has been given the go ahead.

Clacton Pavilion, which was the jewel in the resort’s crown in its heyday, has seen a £3million overhaul in recent years.

Owner Billy Peak has now been given approval for a third phase of development, which includes a water park as part of a new outdoor family play area, aimed at the under-13s. It could include small water slides and water cannons.

Mr Peak said: “We believe these proposals give a new dimension to the visitor offer and makes Clacton a destination of choice throughout the year.

“We are responding positively to the feedback we have had from the council and customers.

“This next phase of our development builds on the existing attractions as well as providing facilities to support the recently regenerated beaches.”

There will also be new all-weather undercover facilities, as well as a revamped adventure golf facility, cafe and terrace, but the existing dated food court will be demolished.

Part of the former public toilets on the seafront will be reopened, having closed ten years ago, and there will be an extension to the Armstrongs restaurant.

The Pavilion building will also be extended to the east, but the existing Food Court will be demolished.

It is thought that the plans will create 20 full time jobs as well as additional seasonal jobs.

Mr Peak said work on the initial changes will start immediately so visitors this summer will start to see the changes.

Tendring Council’s planning committee unanimously approved the blueprints at a meeting on Tuesday.

Councillor Lynda McWilliams said: “This action will tidy and improve the provision that there is there.

“And there were no objections whatsoever.”

John White said the plans were an extra boost to the area following the major sea defence scheme, which was completed last year.

He said: “After spending £36million to improve those beaches, to get something like this east if the Pier is a tremendous improvement.”