Browsing: Council News & Politics

Southend-on-Sea City Council is supporting Essex Police following an armed robbery at a jewellery shop in Western Road, just off the High Street, that took place on Monday, 16 February 2026. The incident involved offenders using weapons, including a machete and axes, before fleeing the scene.

Southend Greens have renewed their call to protect the city’s Green Belt following proposals for thousands of new homes on land at Hadleigh Farm and north of Bournes Green, warning that once this land is lost, it is lost forever.

Residents are being invited to help shape the future of Shoeburyness as up to £20 million in Pride in Place funding is set to be invested over the next decade. Applications are now open for an Independent Chair and Board Members to join the Pride in Shoeburyness Neighbourhood Board.

Southend-on-Sea City Council has officially opened three new Autism Resource Bases across the city, providing specialist support within mainstream schools. The purpose-built facilities form part of a wider SEND strategy to expand local provision and help children access the right support close to home.

Southend-on-Sea City Council has published its final budget proposals for 2026/27, outlining investment in roads, housing, open spaces and frontline services while freezing parking charges and reducing several resident fees. With over £5m additional funding for children’s social care and continued investment in infrastructure and regeneration, the budget aims to protect vulnerable residents and strengthen civic pride across the city.

Local hairdresser and former Leigh Town Councillor Anita Forde has been selected as the Green Party candidate for Leigh ward ahead of May’s local elections, as the party looks to build on growing support and secure a third Green councillor for the area.

Southend-on-Sea City Council is set to upgrade council homes on the Balmoral estate by installing new ground source heat pump systems, helping to cut energy bills, reduce carbon emissions and provide more efficient heating for residents.

Uber has chosen to surrender its Private Hire Operator Licence in Southend just weeks after it was formally granted. Southend-on-Sea City Council says all operators must meet the same standards and safeguards, with further engagement planned as part of a wider taxi and private hire policy review.

Young artists from Southend secondary schools are invited to take part in a live portrait competition at The Royals Shopping Centre as part of City Day 2026, with £300 in prizes awarded per year group winner.

Residents, community groups and local businesses in Leigh, West Leigh, Belfairs and Eastwood Park can now apply for funding through the Big Sparks small grants scheme.