Revised coach parking arrangements have been introduced in Southend with immediate effect.
Coaches can park from 0900 to 1700hrs, Monday to Sunday for £22 at Arriva’s Short Street depot – postcode SS2 5B. Included with coach parking booking is a voucher to be redeemed for a free lunch at Pebbles Café on the seafront – a 10 to 15-minute walk away. Drivers are required to book a space in advance by calling 01702 442407 between 0900 and 1200hrs, Monday to Friday.
On the day of their visit, to set down their group at one of the attractions or drop-off points (for a maximum of 15 minutes), coach drivers should follow the blue route on the map on Visit Southend’s coaches and groups page.
They should then park at the Arriva bus depot following the orange route. The depot also has coach vehicle washing facilities for £10 per vehicle.
Andy Warrender, CPT’s Coaching Executive, said: “We have been working closely with Southend Council and our members over the past few months to ensure that suitable coach parking and set-down/pick-up points were provided in Southend following the recent withdrawal of coach parking at the Seaway car park.
“We are pleased to learn that the new facility on Short Street, provided by one of our bus operator members, Arriva, allows coaches to park safely and securely in a location close to many of the town’s main attractions.”
Anthony Comber from Arriva commented: “We are delighted to be working in partnership with Southend Council to provide new coach parking facilities. The coach trade plays a vital role in supporting town’s economy. We are confident that the new offer, free lunch and facilities will be well received by the coach industry and we look forward to welcoming more drivers as the summer season approaches.”
Scott Dolling, Director of Culture, Tourism and Property at Southend Council, was keen to stress: “Southend is a great destination for coaches and groups. Its famous seaside stretches seven miles and boasts great attractions, include the world’s longest pleasure pier, and many have special rates for groups.
“With several drop-off points along the seafront, drivers will still be able to set down passengers close to the beach and main attractions, park up securely and then walk back to the seafront for a free lunch.”
Further information is available at www.visitsouthend.co.uk/visitor-information/coaches-groups.aspx.
