TENDRING council has warmly welcomed the renovation and reopening of a derelict pub.

A couple from Ongar have bought the previously empty and boarded up Never Say Die pub in Jaywick and spent money on refurbishing the site.

It has been completely transformed and has now reopened with a modernised bar and a new holiday let at the back of the building.

Surgeons Shukri Shami and Eva Stibe also bought another derelict property and have brought that back into use.

Paul Honeywood, Tendring Council cabinet member for housing who has responsibility for Jaywick, praised the couple for spotting an opportunity and contributing to the on-going regeneration of the area.

He said: “We have always said that there is only so much that will happen with public money and we needed to get the private sector on board.

“Three new residential developments for a developer have been given the go ahead in recent months which will involve 28 flats and now this further investment has been unveiled.

“The couple obviously have faith in Jaywick and have shown a tremendous commitment to the community which is only to be welcomed.

“I hope that others will take up the challenge and I am sure we are just seeing the green shoots of regeneration with more to follow.

"The Council is looking to start work on new starter homes soon and along with our partners in the coastal community team we are working hard to make things happen."

Essex County Council has spent more than £5 million on improving roads and drainage in Brooklands and is currently working on roads off Broadway.

Mr Honeywood added: “Jaywick Sands really is on the up. It may be small steps but momentum is growing and we are definitely moving in the right direction.

“There is real cause to be optimistic and I am sure residents will join us in welcoming the investment after Jaywick Sands has missed out for so long.”