52 jobs at risk under refubishment plans at Harwich hotel and restaurant The Pier

More than 50 staff at an Essex hotel and restaurant could be made redundant while it closes for more than four months next year for refurbishment works.

The Pier at Harwich, part of Milsom Hotels and Restaurants group, will be closed while an investment of more than £750,000 is made.

The redevelopment will create a new first-floor brasserie with an extended balcony for outdoor dining overlooking the harbour. On the ground floor will be a new bar serving food as well as a dining room for private functions.

Owner Paul Milsom said: “Dining trends have changed enormously and we need to create something completely new that will excite and please not just our current customers but will also bring us new customers.

“It does mean, however, that we have had to make the very difficult decision to advise our 52 staff at The Pier of our redundancy plans, following due process. The Pier will be closed from the start of the New Year until early May, when there will be plenty of new job opportunities.

“Unfortunately we are unable to keep any part of the business operational during building works, including the 14 bedrooms, as there will be major disruption across the site. We are in essence shutting down and, in time, will open a new business.”

Planning permission for the refurbishment was granted by Tendring District Council in October.

The new brasserie will be open all day, seven days a week, and will replace the current Ha’Penny Bistro and the fine dining Harbourside Restaurant.