Historic Essex attraction set to reopen

The future of an iconic Essex seaside landmark appears to have been decided. The Kursaal in Southend-on-Sea first opened in 1901 as an amusement park with a ballroom, fairground, ice rink and even a zoo.

The Grade II listing building has been closed permanently since 2019 and fallen into disrepair, but it could soon be welcoming visitors again...

Picture credit: John Keeble/Getty Images.