A COUNCIL boss says he’s willing to discuss and hear suggestions from traders about how to save and extend this year’s summer season and trade.

It comes as Southend seafront traders have called on the council to help save this year’s summer tourism, following the impact of the coronavirus.

Ian Gilbert, Labour leader of Southend Council said: “A lot of this all depends on how and when we return to some kind of normal life and the changes to the Government’s advice.

“I think we will consider any suggestions that are put to us and we will be happy to discuss ideas to help boost trade.

“Bringing back the illuminations would be a big investment and we wouldn’t want to do it half heartedly.

“We are being guided by the Government advice on social distancing regarding the traffic contraflow system and pier and the fountains.

“We are keeping these all under review and things and the situation may change due to the alterations brought in by the Government.”

The council boss said he’s open to suggestions to help the seaside town’s summer trade if the safety restrictions allow and or are lifted by the Government.

He said he understands the struggles feld by traders due to the pandemic.