Browsing: Local News

Emergency departments remain open for life-threatening conditions, while many people can be treated sooner through alternatives such as NHS 111, pharmacies and GP services, which are open as usual after the holiday period.

A decade-long delay has left Rochford District exposed, with residents now being asked to judge a Local Plan without vital evidence and with long-term consequences for communities and the Green Belt.

Born from community action, the Southend Water Summits have delivered real investment and accountability, with a new committee now ensuring progress continues for generations to come.

Southend’s history, geography, and carefully planned growth have long respected natural boundaries and the Green Belt. This article explores why that balance is now under threat, and why protecting remaining Green Belt land is vital for heritage, infrastructure, and future generations.

Local health leaders are encouraging people to check their eligibility for routine cancer screening following a powerful message from His Majesty The King, highlighting how early diagnosis can save lives and improve outcomes.

Southend-on-Sea City Council is making Christmas tree recycling easier than ever this festive season, with a new free bookable collection service and seven temporary drop-off points across the city, alongside changes to bin collections and garden waste services.

Residents are being urged to continue coming forward for NHS care during five days of strike action by resident doctors, with life-saving services maintained and GP practices remaining open as flu season places additional pressure on hospitals.

Residents across parts of Essex are reporting weeks-long delays to postal deliveries, with some forced to collect mail from sorting offices. Concerns have been raised over staffing shortages and the impact on urgent correspondence, amid Royal Mail’s recent change in ownership.

The local NHS is urging residents to use the right healthcare services and get vaccinated as an early surge in flu cases increases winter pressure across Mid and South Essex.

Southend East and Rochford MP Bayo Alaba visited the Shoeburyness National Coastwatch Institution station, meeting volunteers and presenting a Certificate of Competence to new recruit Bethan Mason. The station plays a vital role in supporting coastal safety alongside the Coastguard and RNLI.