The Mulberry Harbour, also known as the Phoenix Caisson, lays on the seabed off of Thorpe Bay where it has been ever since it was being towed for the D Day landings 80 years ago.
The platform remains the property of the MOD but continues to attract visitors walking out to it, especially during warmer weather.
However, inexperienced people can find themselves in trouble as the tide flows in quickly, leading to an increase in calls to Southend Coastguard and Southend RNLI.
The Coastguard said: “We would like to remind anyone thinking of walking out to visit this historic feature of the dangers, if you are not familiar with our local tides and mudflats.”
They issued the following advice for anyone considering walking out to the Mulberry Harbour in Southend:
- You should always check the daily tide times.
- Make sure you are properly dressed with shoes for walking in water and over sharp shells.
- Remember that the Mulberry Harbour is over a mile off shore.
- Note that the published time of low tide is an estimate. There are lots of variables and the tide turns half an hour before you will notice it over the sands.
- Be aware that despite the sands looking flat, The Mulberry Harbour is on a raised sandbank. There are channels in the sand around it and pose dangers, as water can surround you quickly.
- Remember that shallower water is found to the West. If you find yourself in trouble, you should walk diagonally towards the Halfway House pub until in a safe depth.
- If you are caught out and find yourself in danger, dial 999 and ask for the Coastguard.
