PLANS have been submitted for the refurbishment of the entrance to Clacton Pavilion.

Clacton Pavilion plc wants to upgrade the existing entrance building on the upper promenade, off Marine Parade East.

The plans also include a new foyer retail unit, store, and staircase down to the lower promenade level.

The company said it already had secured permission to remove the existing roof and for new extensions for two retail units, as well as to build a new roof following the curve of the building.

There will also be a glazed colonnade and a new central staircase which leads to the lower family entertainment centre.

The pavilion was the jewel in the crown of the resort during its heyday and attracted top bands, national beauty contests and ballroom dancers.

But in recent years, the site has become rundown. A statement by agent, Art-Tech Architecture, said: “Having had the opportunity to carry out extensive investigation works, it has become apparent much of the existing structure can be refurbished rather than replaced with new.

“With minor modifications to the structure, the layout can be adapted to suit the needs of the new family entertainment centre, at lower promenade level.

“Over the central area is the existing, curved glazed roof.

“This structure has been found to be in much better condition than was originally thought when only viewed from outside.

“It is now proposed to restore the roof’s structural members and reglaze.

“This revised approach, which retains the existing structure, is the correct approach for this building, as it retains much of the character of the original while also giving a functional entrance to the lower level.”

The proposal also includes plans to cover the staircase on the south side, to form a new retail area, and for all doors and windows to be replaced using aluminium frames.

Tendring Council will make a decision on the application by July 19.

The cost of the project has not yet been revealed.

Billy Peak, of Clacton Pavilion plc, was unavailable for comment.