Locals are calling for the pathway to be re-opened as soon as possible
The closure of the seawall pathway in Canvey(Image: Submitted)
A seawall walkway on an Essex island has been shut to the public due to the need for “urgent” repairs due to safety concerns. Walkers and residents say it’s a “shame” that the unofficial footpath on Canvey Island seafront, near the Sandy Bay Residential Park, has been closed.
The seawall path is a popular walkway for dog walkers, families, and visitors on the island, such as local Janice Bottle, 49, who said: “I walk this way so often, as it’s so nice to get the fresh air and great views. I know lots of people are missing that lovely walk. It does feel a bit like typical overkill these days, just close the stairs off if they are unsafe. It all feels a bit like health and safety gone mad.”
More than a dozen residents took to social media, with some asking what was happening with the walkway and others saying the closure was unnecessary. The walkway surrounds the Sandy Bay Residential Resort, a “vibrant” gated residential park for people aged 50 and older.
Kevin O’Callaghan, 60, called for it to reopen very soon. He said: “The views and atmosphere there are beautiful, and it’s an important route for so many walkers and residents. I hope we can see and get updates very soon.” He said the seafront must remain accessible to residents.
A spokesman for the Environment Agency also apologised for the inconvenience. They said: “The metal steps and gantry on the seawall near Sandy Bay Residential Park are in urgent need of repair and are not safe for use. The public are still able to use the official public footpath on the back of the seawall.”
