Beach Pilates classes to return after council deal

A Pilates instructor will return to running free beach classes after settling a dispute with the local council.

Alexandra Beard moved her sessions to a cafe after being told she must pay £85 each time she used Bell Wharf Beach in Leigh-on-Sea, Essex.

Southend-on-Sea City Council has since agreed for the fee to be paid as a one-off charge, recognising the "community benefit" of the classes.

"I'm really pleased we've been able to find a resolution that keeps us both happy," said Beard, whose classes have attracted more than 100 people.

She said the authority had helped her with the required safety measures and paperwork.

The 35-year-old, who works as an executive assistant in London during the week, said she would hold her first session back at the beach this Sunday.

Attendees are encouraged to donate to local charities.

"The support from everyone has been incredible and it has reminded me why these sessions matter so much," Beard added.

Southend council said it originally requested the fee as a "site-use charge relating to organised events".

A spokesperson said the charge did not come under any statutory licensing requirement, but was part of its "city-wide approach" when trying to manage organised activities in public spaces.

They said Beard had agreed to help promote messages about water safety at future sessions, and the "format" and the "number of participants" had been "adjusted".

Matt Dent, the Labour cabinet member for culture, tourism and business, said: "The agreed financial arrangement reflects this balance - acknowledging both the clear public health and wellbeing benefits of the sessions and the organiser's responsibility to contribute to the safe and managed use of the space."

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