Southend's historic Kursaal has secured a £540,000 funding boost to support vital restoration works and help bring the landmark building back into public use.
The investment from Historic England will fund essential conservation and repair works to the Grade II listed building, addressing structural issues, water damage and other deterioration, while helping protect its historic features for future generations.
The announcement follows the new leaseholder Remblance Leisure Ltd, led by local operator Star Amusements, taking over the lease and now progressing plans to restore and revive the Kursaal as a family-focused leisure and entertainment destination.
Cllr Daniel Cowan, Leader of Southend-on-Sea City Council, said: "The Kursaal is one of Southend's most iconic landmarks, and my administration has been determined to secure a future for the Kursaal. We've secured a new leaseholder who has already got restoration work underway. Now, together, we've secured another £540,000 to help bring this incredible building back to life and I'm excited to see what comes next."
The works will help make the building weather-tight, structurally secure and suitable for increased public access. Funding will also support the restoration of key historic spaces, including the dome entrance and ticket hall.
Nick Singer, Operations Director at Star Amusements, put together and submitted the application for the Historic England funding. Nick said: "This funding is a significant boost for the project and will help us continue essential restoration work while respecting the Kursaal's heritage. We're excited about its future and the role it can once again play in Southend's leisure and entertainment offer."
The funding marks the latest milestone in the Kursaal's phased restoration, with further work planned before the building can fully reopen to the public.