The Three Shells lagoon is set to get a makeover with the installation of a decked area where visitors can relax.

The tidal lagoon has proved to be a popular feature with visitors on Southend seafront but it has struggled to cope with numbers on the sunniest days.

To ease this, Southend Council has obtained planning permission for a timber decked area to the east side of the lagoon, extending out from the Adventure Island access road across the sloping wall of the lagoon or revetment.

In its planning application, the council said: “Generally, the public use of the lagoon beach area, however, during summer periods when the lagoon gets busy, it has been noticed that visitors often use the revetment – and sometimes the access road – as areas for seating.

“This can potentially compromise public safety and so the proposed addition of a decking area will greatly enhance visitor experience and safety at the lagoon.”

The decked area is expected to become a popular space for sunbathers and those who want to relax and enjoy the view.

As well as work on the deck improvements will also be made to the lagoon for when tide levels are high.

Water flow valves will become automated.

The valves were installed into the wall so that the lagoon can be emptied and refilled, ensuring a high quality of regularly-replenished bathing water.

The lagoon is 1.1 metres at its deepest.

Sheets of welded metal inside the rock walls retain the seawater when the tide comes in, whilst rubber material at the base of the wall prevents silt and mud from entering and exiting the lagoon.

The attraction opened in July 2016 to enable visitors to take a dip even when the tide is out.