Welcome to our August edition.

One topic continues to dominate local conversations, the proposed development north of Bournes Green and the impact many residents fear it could have on our already overstretched infrastructure.

This month, several local residents have written to share their concerns. I’ve decided to include two of the letters that cover different aspects of the proposal, from increasing traffic congestion to the growing pressures on hospital and healthcare services. Whatever your own views, I felt it was important to share the voices of people who care deeply about the future of our community.

While on holiday in Malta, Shah and Alex noticed the island is facing similar environmental challenges to those affecting our area. Read about their observations inside.

You can also learn valuable life-saving skills at a free session run by Southend Coastal Surgeries, see page 30 for details.

Lastly, for this month’s Oracle competition we have 2 x pairs of tickets to give away for The Summer Series three day festival, at Central Park Chelmsford, Fri 28 August 26. A fabulous line up featuring chart-topping girl group The Sugababes, a DJ set by Spice Girl Melanie C, BBC Radio DJ Annie Mac, and Southend-based club night Love Sensation. Enter online at Oraclepublications.co.uk competition page, open to over 18’s only. Closing date 20 August.

As always, there’s plenty more to enjoy throughout this month’s Oracle.

Emma Wynne-Morgan