Work is finally due to start on a £500,000 children's funfair on Canvey seafront.

The project has suffered a series of setbacks since the idea was first born two years ago.

Now developers, Island Leisure, have instructed builders to start construction at the Labworth recreational ground in Eastern Esplanade after the lease for the land was at last signed.

In charge: Scott Petty is relieved work has finally started. Picture: MAXINE CLARKE

Scott Petty, boss of Island Leisure, said he was over the moon things were finally taking shape. He said: "We did get a bit tied up in connection to the lease, making sure everything was OK and we had hoped to start work earlier, but that's just how things go.

"The most important thing is that the builders are now on site and so we are that bit nearer to the funfair being ready."

The funfair will boast around 40 miniature attractions, as well as sideshows and coconut shies. The one-acre attraction, which will be for youngsters aged nine and under, will also have roundabouts, dodgems, go-karts and a small train running round the site.

Dave Blackwell, the council's lead council member for leisure, welcomed the news work had started.

He said: "I am very pleased. Once it is finished it should be a real asset to the island."

Published Thursday, May 1, 2003

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