When residents hear about the sheer number of new houses proposed for our area, their reactions tend to fall into three categories.
Some respond with shock and anger: “We can’t cope now, let alone with thousands more houses.” They see the pressure already on our services and can’t imagine adding more.
Others express disbelief: “It’ll never happen.” or “Surely no one is that foolish?” They assume the plans are just talk.
And then there are those who show support, often saying: “Maybe I’ll finally be able to buy a house for 50% off.” But the truth is rarely that simple.
Unfortunately, the reality paints a stark picture: Our infrastructure is already stretched to breaking point. Local schools, GP surgeries, dentists and hospitals are overwhelmed. There are no spare places, just growing waiting lists. Our roads are in disrepair and dangerously congested. A single breakdown can bring an entire area to a standstill, and pedestrian crossings are few and far between. Anglian Water has stated that to support 10,000+ new houses, an entirely new treatment plant would be required. The recent flooding shows how unprepared we already are.
And the idea of “affordable housing” is misleading. Typically, it means houses only 20% below market value, and even that is often reduced after planning permission is granted.
These developments are not distant threats, they are imminent unless we act. Broken promises in other areas, such as Hall Road in Rochford and Gunners Park, prove that once permission is granted, infrastructure pledges are quietly dropped.
Southend doesn’t have a housing shortage. We have an affordability crisis. Flooding the market with houses targeted at London buyers won’t help our local families.
This is a fight for our community, our green spaces, and our future!
We’ll provide everything you need to take action: letters, information, and support:
savingsouthendsgreenbelt.co.uk
by Kim Hall
Thorpe Bay Residents Association (TBRA))