A PROJECT designed to regenerate part of Burnham’s Quay has been launched.

The scheme involves homes, shops and a restaurant with the public being given the chance to have their say.

The Burnham Quay regeneration project is being proposed by former members of the Royal Burnham Yacht Club, who want to bring a new public ferry pontoon, reimagined visitor centre, new accommodation, shops and restaurant facilities to the quayside.

The ambitious project was unveiled to the public at the Burnham Town Council chambers on Tuesday.

The project would see the Quayside Café and two-storey Fairway Chandlery shop demolished and replaced, along with two dilapidated single-storey residential units behind them.

A new visitor centre would be built opposite the flood gateway on the jetty next to businesses.

If the project reaches the planning application stage, it would be a joint application by the yacht club, next to the site, and M&T Developments Ltd, spearheaded by Tim and Cathy Herring and Mike Baker-Harber, all of whom are Burnham residents and members of the yacht club.

They propose, in place of the dilapidated units, fully accessible apartments overlooking the River Crouch with footpaths, parking access, a refurbished and upgraded jetty, and increasing the Quayside’s seating space outside on the quay.

A maritime crane in front of the proposed development, which was previously used by the Royal Burnham Yacht Club to lift small boats and dinghies from the river to be transported, would be restored to be used once again, after it has remained derelict for many years.

M&T was formed specifically to acquire and develop the site to benefit the yacht club.

A spokesman for the group said: “The intended redevelopment is an altruistic proposal designed to protect the Royal Burnham Yacht Club and town of Burnham-on-Crouch from inappropriate schemes adjacent to the club that will assist the long-term future of the club by providing financial security.

“If this project is approved, and completed, the freehold of the site, ground rents and commercial leases will be transferred to the Royal Burnham Yacht Club.

“The club, which employs 23 local people, is a non-profit organisation established to promote sailing and rowing activities on the river at Burnham-on-Crouch.

“The continued existence and financial stability of the club will ensure continuity of employment for local people.”

The ambitious project is at a very early stage.

It is hoped residents from across Burnham will show an interest in the scheme and share their views and suggestions to help develop the proposal into plans and then into reality.

The project could take several years to complete with planning permission required first and then time to construct.

The aim is to protect the area from unwanted development and introduce an improved area for sailors, residents and visitors.

If residents wish to provide feedback about the plans, they should contact 01621 784567.