SOUTHEND pier has been closed until further notice after the cold weather caused health and safety concerns.

Following an inspection of the ageing structure, Southend Council closed the pier this morning, Friday, and it will stay closed until engineering work has been carried out.

There is currently no completion date for the works, and anger has been expressed over the short notice given, with opposition councillors claiming more should have been done to maintain the pier and prevent such closures becoming necessary.

FOR FULL STORY SEE WEDNESDAY'S ECHO.