CONSERVATION experts have thrown another hurdle in the path of Southend Pier’s new £3million cultural centre.

Despite councillors approving the much-delayed plans for the pierhead yesterday, English Heritage has warned it could refuse to back the development.

The Government quango wants to have the final say on the materials used to coat the wave-shaped centre.

It believes the constant wind and rain in the middle of the Thames Estuary could give the building a “tired” look.

A spokesman for the group said: “We consider new buildings should be of an exceptionally high standard, and tested against the widest possible criteria.

“We are not opposed to the concept of this building.

“But we have serious concerns about the facing materials’ durability, weathering qualities and overall appearance.”

Southend Council officers have taken steps to allay English Heritage’s fears.

It has promised to consult it again before the development goes ahead.

The council needs the conservation group’s permission before it can make any alterations to the Grade II-listed pier.

The concerns are the latest setback to hit the cultural centre, which was supposed to have been built by this summer.

The plans have already been stalled several times because of concerns over its impact on the river’s colony of ruddy turnstones and other seabirds.

However, planning permission for the development was granted by the council’s development control committee yesterday, amid a fanfare of praise.

Elizabeth Day (Con, West Shoebury) said: “I am wholly and totally in favour of this building going ahead.

“We have one of the most famous piers in the world, but nothing on the end of it. That needs to change.”

Chris Walker (Con, Eastwood Park) added: “I am 100 per cent behind this. We really need something to attract people to the end of the pier.”

The plans were eventually approved by 12 votes to none, with three abstentions.

If English Heritage gives its consent, the council hopes to finish the pre-fabricated centre by the end of March next year.