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Southend-on-Sea City Council is asking residents to delay disposing of unwanted fridges and freezers, where practical and safe to do so, because of a national shortage of facilities that process these items.

The new Southend on Sea Local Plan proposes to reduce this to 14,700 up to 2045 if approved and gives much greater control to the Council. Adopting the Plan will also reduce the risk of speculative applications coming forward in unsuitable locations and enable the council to optimise the benefits for residents.

Current housing growth increases demand on healthcare services in Essex. Local planning often neglects NHS consultation, risking overstretched services. Coordinated planning and investment are crucial to meet the needs of growing communities and maintain service quality.

Jotman’s Farm, a historic Greenbelt site in Castle Point, faces a major planning application for 675 homes amidst planning failures. Local groups demand a sound local plan to protect this vulnerable Grey Belt land.

Malta and Southend face similar environmental challenges from rapid development and population growth. Community campaigns highlight the importance of sustainable planning, protecting green and blue spaces, and investing in resilient infrastructure for thriving coastal communities.

Local residents complain of poor Royal Mail service with delays affecting vital mail. Ofcom fined Royal Mail £21 million for failing targets. MP David Burton-Sampson calls for urgent improvements following a disappointing survey.

Plans for 5,000 homes north of Bournes Green threaten Green Belt and worsen traffic congestion on already overloaded local roads and A127/A13, raising serious environmental and infrastructure concerns.

Following a Southend car meet with dangerous driving, 24 drivers were sentenced with penalties including fines, points, and warnings. Police emphasise safety and will seize vehicles for repeat offences.

Ministers have ordered Basildon Council to accelerate its long-delayed Local Plan, prompting fierce debate over housing, local democracy and the protection of green spaces. While some believe intervention had become inevitable, many residents fear thousands of homes could be built before roads, schools and health services are ready.

Green Party campaigner Simon Gittus, who stood in West Leigh at the recent local elections, is calling for tougher action against private equity firms after Southend City Council confirmed that companies operated by Modella Capital owe more than £200,000 in business rates and other liabilities.