A LARGE section of the seafront will be closed for three nights for road resurfacing works.

Western Esplanade, Southend will be closed from tonight for three nights for road resurfacing works.

The road will be closed from 7:30pm until 6am with diversions in place and access for residents, to restaurants, parking and casino maintained.

The road closure will mean a huge number of parking spaces will be closed.

Whilst the works take place a diversion route will be signed and in place via Marine Parade, Southchurch Avenue, A1160 Queensway, A13 Queensway, A13 London Road, Chalkwell Avenue to Western Esplanade.

Traders said they are not concerned about any effect on trade.

Martin Richardson, owner of Happidrome, Southend seafront said: “I don’t think it’s going to cause any major issues.

“We are out of season so don’t usually have a huge amount of trade at this time of the year or week.

“We have been quite fortunate already this year with the half term weather.

“My only issue with it, I think they are only doing this little bit.

“When they start knocking down buildings it’s going to need to be done again.

“That part of the road does flood at time so it’s a good thing.”

Paul Thompson, owner of Pebbles One Cafe on the seafront agrees with Mr Richardson.

He said: “I would almost congratulate them for doing it now.”

Councillors have also echoed the views of the seafront traders.

They say there is no other way than to close the whole road.

Brian Ayling, Independent councillor for St Luke said: “If the council has got to close the road we’ve got to do it.

“I am sure it has got to be done and I suppose it is the best time of year to do this sort of thing.”

Ron Woodley, Independent councillor for Thorpe said: “Sometimes we have to carry out works to keep our roads in a good state of repair.

“I expect the council has made sure there will be minimal effect.”