SOUTHEND’S artistic credentials got a boost as a seafront unit which has stood empty for 13 years officially opened as a cultural centre.

Southend Council and the Focal Point Gallery yesterday opened Twenty One – a brand new cultural centre set to showcase local artists’ work.

The space has been developed to celebrate “the vibrant creative community in Southend.”

It will offer visitors to the seafront a gallery space with a cafe, patio, kitchen and seating areas.

In the evening, the space has also been designed to convert into a performance venue to showcase the range of artistic talent in the town.

The building will be used in conjunction with activities and events from Focal Point Gallery.

Ann Holland, councillor responsible for culture, tourism and the economy, attended the opening of the unit.

She said: “It went really well. There were quite a few people there and the artists started arriving in the evening. I’m really pleased with it.

“They have a portrait from every artist and there is a curtain that draws across in a semi-circle for live music. It’s great. You could have a band or duo and I guess people will stand and watch. I’ve put in a request for some country music.”

The licensed cafe will serve locally produced food and drink.

Mrs Holland added: “ The food that was served at the opening was very good so I’m looking forward to seeing the menu. Its great to see the unit put to such good use when it’s been empty for so long.”

It is part of a multimillion pound plan to revamp the pier and its surrounding area.

Last week the council announced plans to build another pavilion on the pier on the site of the former bowling alley, which was destroyed by fire.

Mrs Holland said: “It is fantastic that Twenty One is open in time for the busy summer months.

“The continued work that has been put in to the seafront and surrounding areas is our way of promoting the wonderful tourist opportunities available in Southend.

“We thrive on our growing cultural scene and the addition of Twenty One gives residents and visitors the opportunity to take in a real cultural experience with stunning views of the estuary.”

The Pier Hill unit has been brought to life after laying empty for 13 years.

The eye-catching, circular building next to the Pier Hill lift had been beset by problems since it was built in 2004, as part of the £6million redevelopment of the hill.

A succession of businesses which showed interest in taking over the unit all pulled out at the last minute, including Costa Coffee and Starbucks.