Clacton's Seaspan pub gets new look thank to council grant

The Seaspan, on Wash Lane, used the funding from Tendring Council’s shopfront scheme to carry out external improvements as part of wider refurbishment plans.

Landlord Chris Wilson bought the pub alongside his wife, Stephanie, and mum, Rachel, after the three fell in love with the place on their first viewing.

The Seaspan shopfront (Image: Tendring Council)

Shortly after taking over, they successfully applied for a shopfront grant from the council to fund improvements, supplementing their own investment and making a huge difference to the look of the building.

Chris, who worked 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."

The renovations, completed just in time for their one-year anniversary as owners, mark the latest chapter in the pub’s history.

Once part of the Butlins estate, The Seaspan was used as accommodation for performers at the former holiday camp during its heyday.

Under Tendring Council’s shopfront scheme, 79 businesses across the district have received more than £720,000 in funding through various government programmes.

Some funding remains available for eligible businesses in Jaywick through the Community Regeneration Partnership.

Ivan Henderson, deputy leader of Tendring Council and councillor responsible 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."