More than 250 people filled Southend High Street on Saturday to protest plans for a huge housing development on protected green belt land between Bournes Green Chase and Shoebury.
The rally, held outside the Odeon cinema, brought together campaigners, community leaders, and local residents determined to stop the proposal. A mix of political party members, environmental advocates, and concerned citizens took to the microphone, each emphasising the importance of preserving Southend’s remaining open spaces.
Speakers highlighted the role the green belt plays in supporting wildlife, providing breathing space for residents, and safeguarding mental health. One campaigner described their daily walks through fields and the value of listening to birdsong, warning that once the land is covered in concrete, those experiences would be gone forever.
Organisers stressed that the protest was not just about opposing one development, but about setting a precedent for how Southend’s future growth is managed. They urged the public to continue speaking out, contact elected representatives, and respond to official consultations.
Council Calls for Residents’ Input
In the wake of mounting opposition, Southend Council has opened a public consultation to help guide the city’s long-term development strategy. The initiative will feed into the Government’s New Towns Taskforce discussions, which could influence whether the green belt site is released for building.
Council leaders say the process is a genuine opportunity for residents to have their say on where and how the city should expand. They are inviting views on housing needs, infrastructure demands, and the environmental impact of potential development sites.
Opposition councillors have criticised the idea of releasing green belt land, calling instead for the focus to be on regenerating brownfield sites. They argue that decisions must remain in local hands rather than being dictated by central government.
Campaigners are now encouraging as many residents as possible to respond to the consultation before the deadline. They say this is the most important step in ensuring Southend’s green belt — and the wildlife and wellbeing it supports — is protected for generations to come.
Have Your Say
The council’s consultation is now live, and your views could make all the difference. Every submission helps show the strength of public opinion and will be considered in shaping Southend’s future.
Take a few minutes to read the proposals and share your thoughts here: Southend Local Plan Consultation