Seafront king Philip Miller has again thrown his hat into the ring to take charge of the revitalisation of Southend Pier.

But he said he was quite happy to let someone else do the work - as long as the landmark gets its much-needed facelift.

Mr Miller, who owns Adventure Island and Sealife Adventure, is one of several entrepreneurs who have expressed an interest in developing the pier.

Southend Council's consultation is still in its early stages so Mr Miller - like others including pier cafe-bar owner Francis McGinty - is still waiting for his initial interest to be acknowledged.

He will have until September 24 to submit further details of his ideas and the money he is prepared to invest to Deloitte, the consultant appointed by Southend Council to sift through applications.

In autumn the council's cabinet will look at a shortlist of applications.

Mr Miller said: "I have tried several times before. Whether I'm successful is another matter. I won't hold my breath.

"The pier to me is a bit of a challenge. It's not something you'll make instant money with.

"I'd just like to get it done but I would be happy if someone else did it and saved me the effort and the money."

The council has advertised for a developer to run all, or part of, the pier, including the trains or an alternative form of transport to get visitors down its 1.34 mile length.

The council does not plan to sell the pier outright, meaning it will remain in public ownership but be leased by a managing company.

Published Monday August 9, 2004

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