COUNCILLORS are poised to back ambitious plans to transform a public shelter on Southend seafront into a European-style cafe, bar and bistro.

Southend Council decided last year to lease out the shelter in Eastern Esplanade, near Bryant Avenue, as a new cafe.

Plans submitted by businessman Jon Bacon are set to improve the semi-derelict shelter, creating a trendy new bar.

The proposal will be considered by Southend Council's development control committee on Wednesday.

Published Monday, November 28, 2005