As we welcome April’s edition of the Oracle, this month’s news reflects both pride in our community and concern for its future.

Cllr James Moyies provides an update on the continued pressure to build on local green belt land, revisiting the issue he first raised nine months ago in the Oracle. Philip Miller MBE also reflects on key decisions made across the city, encouraging residents to think carefully about future choices.

A major focus is the strain on Southend’s waterways, with increasing reports of flooding, sewage incidents and pollution affecting the area. Despite improvements in monitoring and investment, many feel infrastructure is struggling to keep pace with development and environmental demands.

These stories highlight the importance of transparency, accountability and community involvement, reminding us all of our shared responsibility to protect the character and sustainability of Thorpe Bay, Shoeburyness and the surrounding areas.

This month’s competition has been provided by Glitter Ball Productions. Win 4 tickets to enjoy an evening with Divine Funk performing live at the recently refurbished Railway Hotel, Clifftown Road, SS1 1AJ on Saturday, 25 April from 8.30 pm. You and your friends will be dancing away to Chic, Bee Gees, Dua Lipa, Raye, Prince, Stevie Wonder and many more.

To enter, please visit the oraclepublications.co.uk competition page (over 18s only). The competition finishes on Friday, 17 April.

Happy Easter

Emma Wynne-Morgan
Publisher