Browsing: Local Issues

Southend Against Sewage is co-hosting the annual ‘Paddle Out Protest’ with Surfers Against Sewage at Chalkwell Beach on Saturday 16th of May, calling for an end to sewage pollution.

Campaigners have revealed what they describe as a new “secret plan” for development on the Salvation Army Farmland, with claims of 900 homes, a new roundabout on the A13 and major concerns over the future of this Green Belt land. A fresh petition has now been launched urging residents to oppose any building on the site.

A campaign to protect Southend’s Green Belt continues to gather momentum, with growing public support, major housing concerns, and debate over future development plans. Councillor James Moyies outlines the risks, challenges, and what residents can do ahead of local elections.

Concerns have been raised over Southend Council’s Councillor Declaration of Interest procedures, with claims that missing and incomplete forms undermine transparency compared to neighbouring councils. The article questions whether weaker safeguards leave the authority exposed to conflicts of interest and calls for stronger accountability measures.

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.