In recent months, our community has achieved an incredible amount. The dedication of our local organisations, artists, charities and businesses continue to showcase their passion for our city and its future.
Supporting our own
If we need a demonstration of what our community can achieve, we need look no further than Lifstan Boys Club and Southend Amateur Boxing Club. When the clubs were informed about the withdrawal of funding by the Youth Investment Fund, they mobilised. Working alongside the clubs, councillors, residents’ associations and invested residents on this campaign was a privilege. I’m so pleased that I was able to play my part in pushing for the reinstatement of the grant with government colleagues.
Events with a difference
Over the summer, we played host to an incredible range of events run by artists and organisers who believe in all that our community has to offer.
For the fourth year running, our city has welcomed global talent at City Jam. It wouldn’t be possible without Steve Hart and Karl Sims, City Jam’s founders, having faith and backing Southend as the stage for this fantastic event. Likewise, without the Lazy Days organisers instinctively backing Southend, we wouldn’t have been able to welcome Example and Katy B to the city this summer. For Southend to host such phenomenal artists from across the globe really speaks to the journey we’re on as a city, and to our flourishing cultural scene.
We also saw local art displayed on a colony of penguins for Waddle-on-Sea. Local businesses partnered with Haven Hospices to deliver the event and ensure that local families facing complex and incurable conditions can access free, specialist care when they need it. It was a fantastic example of our community coming together to achieve truly wonderful things.
Supporting our heritage sites
A cause close to us all, is the Kursaal. The strength of public support for getting the building re-opened is inspiring. When I hosted my public meeting earlier this year, I was touched by just how many residents shared heartwarming stories of the venue over the years. I know that if, and when, we are successful in getting the building back open, our community will welcome it with open arms.
Recently, the Shrubbery Garden and distinctive curved Sun Shelter at Cliff Gardens have been given Grade II protection. The Garden and Shelter have been recognised for their cultural and architectural significance in the development of Southend as a seaside resort. The Milton Society were instrumental in the recognition through their tireless campaigning, which just goes to show just how lucky we are to have such committed community groups pushing for the recognition our city deserves.
by Bayo Alaba
MP for Southend East and Rochford
01702 844754
bayo.alaba.mp@parliament.uk