Southend Pier’s iconic railway trains will be out of action for almost a month as crucial maintenance work takes place to ensure there a reliable service for visitors this summer.
From Monday 10 March to Friday 5 April, the pier trains will not be running, but Southend Pier itself will remain open.
Visitors will still be able to enjoy the estuary views, fresh sea air, and a scenic walk along the world’s longest pleasure pier.
A challenging upgrade of Southend Pier’s railway
The Southend Pier Railway, runs the full 1.25-mile length of the pier, transporting thousands of visitors between the shore and the pier head each year. In 2020, Southend Council invested £3.5 million in a major upgrade, replacing the ageing diesel trains with two eco-friendly, electric trains to modernise the service.
The new state-of-the-art trains were designed to be more efficient and environmentally friendly. One was dedicated to the late Sir David Amess, Southend’s long-serving local MP, and was unveiled by King Charles III (then Prince Charles) in 2022.
However, the transition to electric trains has not been without setbacks. While they were originally expected to enter service in mid-2021, a series of technical issues delayed full operations until late 2022. In April 2022, a major malfunction saw passengers trapped inside a train after its doors failed to open at the pier head. Engineers and passengers had to pry open the doors manually, leading to the train being taken out of service for five months.
Continuing problems have resulted in the diesel train named Sir William Heygate being put back into service, while problems with the new stock are rectified.
More recently, in October 2024, one of the new electric trains suffered a reported complete power failure, resulting in a low-speed crash that caused damage to the train and infrastructure. The Office of Rail and Road (ORR) is currently investigating the incident to determine the cause and prevent future occurrences.
A perfect time to explore Southend Pier on foot
With spring on the horizon and longer, brighter days ahead, there’s no better time to experience the pier on foot. The 1.34-mile walk to the pier head not only offers stunning panoramic views but also provides an opportunity to spot local wildlife, including seabirds, seals, and even the occasional porpoise.
For those looking to stay active, walking the full length of the pier and back burns around 200 calories—a fun way to get some exercise while soaking in the coastal scenery.
Councillor Matt Dent, Cabinet Member for Culture, Tourism and Business, reassured visitors that the pier remains open despite the train service being temporarily suspended. He said: “Southend Pier is one of our most loved landmarks, and this essential work will ensure the trains run smoothly in time for the summer season.”
He added: “In the meantime, Southend Pier is still open for business, and we encourage visitors to make the most of the beautiful surroundings, whether that’s by enjoying a leisurely walk, taking in the fresh sea air, or relaxing at the café once you reach the end. The pier is a fantastic place to experience nature at your own pace.”
Support for visitors with mobility needs
For visitors who rely on the train service, Southend Pier staff will be available to offer assistance and discuss alternative arrangements. Anyone requiring support is encouraged to speak to a member of staff upon arrival.
While the train service undergoes essential maintenance, Southend Pier remains a must-visit destination, offering a chance to immerse yourself in the beauty of the Thames Estuary, enjoy a relaxing seaside stroll, and take in the rich history of this beloved landmark.