Browsing: Spotlight

Southend residents are rallying against plans to build 10,000 homes on cherished Green Belt land, with James Miller of Southend Confelicity arguing the proposal contradicts national planning rules, lacks infrastructure, and ignores viable brownfield alternatives.

A historic revival is underway in Southend’s Clifftown Conservation Area, with a £32,000 Lottery Fund award supporting plans to fully restore the much-loved Bowling Green and celebrate its 100th Anniversary.

Shoebury residents are demanding urgent action on flooding, housing, and a lack of council transparency. From neglected outflows and sewage issues to rising parking charges and lost affordable housing, trust in Southend Council is at an all-time low.

With new, higher,  Government housing targets for Southend and other areas, and a seemingly Government focus on the south east, these are even more worrying times for our Green Belt, and indeed our urban areas.

In my mind, I have a terrible fear that this once proud and great nation of ours is rushing towards third-world status.

Southend is at a breaking point. Soaring costs, sky-high parking fees, and safety concerns are driving away visitors and crippling…

Residents have raised their voices, but responses from Council leadership fall short. When a formal letter to the Chief Executive is deflected to a planning officer, it signals a disturbing lack of accountability. Shoebury deserves better, and it’s time for answers.

Not in my backyard is a well-trodden saying that is often used in a derogatory fashion. It implies selfishness and hypocrisy, and I can see why. We all believe everyone should enjoy a roof over their heads, but not at the cost of our way of life.

Anyone who hasn’t visited Hadleigh Park has missed a treat. Located just off the A13 at Hadleigh, it’s a large expanse of open countryside that slopes down to the edge of the Thames.

Please be reminded that our Walk for Wards event will be taking place on Sunday, 22 September 2024. This year’s route will start and finish at Adventure Island, taking you along the beautiful seafront of Southend, Westcliff, and Chalkwell.