Port Project Commences

WORK has begun on the first stage of the Leigh Port regeneration project, with contractors establishing a temporary site compound in the car park opposite Leigh Marshes Household Waste Recycling Centre.

A fenced-off area, portacabin and machinery were seen in place in the first week of November as contractors prepare for the equipment and materials needed for the major works behind the cockle sheds, which are expected to begin in the new year.

Local fisherman and former councillor Peter Wexham, who has been closely involved in efforts to get the project off the ground, welcomed the progress, explaining that the compound would provide space for machinery, sheet piling and concrete needed for the improvements.

The works will also involve moving between Belton Way and relocating the existing The Belton Way Small Craft Club to a new site.

Mr Wexham said: “This work is so important to make sure the fishing industry stays in Old Leigh, making sure that the creek doesn’t seal up and keeping it alive for the next generation.”

The project has seen a number of delays, with Mr Wexham expressing his relief that work was evidently now underway: “I’m pleased that it has started up. It’s taken over 10 years. I’ve lived long enough to see it started, but I’d like to see it finished!”

Coun Matt Dent, Cabinet Member for Business, Culture, Music and Tourism, confirmed that current activity was focused on establishing the temporary site compound ahead of the main improvement works.

He stated: “Current activity is focused on setting up the temporary site compound that will support the project, ahead of major improvement works on the port beginning in the new year.

“The project will modernise port infrastructure, helping to secure the long-term future of Leigh’s fishing and cockling industry while protecting the area’s unique maritime heritage. Improvements will include quay upgrades, piling, dredging and other essential works to create a safer, more resilient and sustainable working port for future generations.

“As well as safeguarding an important part of Leigh’s identity, the project will support local jobs and businesses, improve the local environment and contribute to the wider regeneration of Southend.

This is an important investment in the future of Leigh Port that will help ensure it continues to support the local economy and community for years to come.

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