An ambitious vision to revive Lowestoft's historic Claremont Pier in the next three to five years has been unveiled.

Owner David Scott believes improvements to the structure – which dates back to 1902 – such as a new walkway with space for seating, shops, restaurants, displays and a museum could make it a top tourist attraction for the area.

It could, he said, even rival Southwold Pier as a destination for visitors.

But he would need to raise up to £2million to make the project a reality.

'We have been trying to get funding for 12 to 15 years,' he said.

'However there is now more of a chance than ever.

'We're finding that a lot more people are spending time at home and people are a bit more wary of going abroad.

'More people are going on these so-called 'stay-cations', which are more prominent than they were. People can have a good time at British resorts and the pier is a good part of that experience.'

Mr Scott plans to use £10,000 of funding from the Department for Communities and Local Government's coastal revival fund to draw up more detailed plans.

See today's Journal for the full story.