Welcome to March’s edition of Oracle Magazine, packed with thoughtful and timely contributions from some of the town’s most engaged voices

Following the recent Water Summit and after hearing Cllr. Paul Gilson speak, I knew you would want to know how dramatically our shoreline has changed since he last wrote for Oracle some 15 years ago, revealing an encouraging ecological reset.

In contrast, Alex and Shah Haider, Southend Against Sewage, highlight growing concerns about waterways, infrastructure, and whether sewage capacity can support proposals for 23,000 new homes.
James Miller, Leader of the Southend Confelicity Party, updates readers on the proposed Southchurch Library closure and recent claims that Southend Hospital is also at the end of its life. This raises important questions around costs and priorities.

Plus, so much more.
This month’s Oracle competition: GO GOLD with Adventure Island – Two Gold Annual Passes for two lucky winners, in celebration of their 50th Anniversary. This will give access to both parks and additional perks for a whole year, worth £144 each. These are unique passes with just a handful being issued in celebration of Adventure Islands golden anniversary. Visit: www.adventureisland.co.uk. Please enter the competition via Oracle’s website, closes 31 March.
Lastly, I’d like to wish all the lovely Mum’s amongst you a very Happy Mother’s Day on Sunday, 15 March.

Emma Wynne-Morgan
Publisher