September marks 20 years of Oracle Publications, a milestone I’m proud to celebrate with you. I’ve shared the story of our beginnings and how the business has grown with your continued support – something I am hugely grateful for.

But this edition also carries a matter of real urgency. Southend is facing the threat of 10,000 additional new houses, and the consultation on the Local Plan ends on 30 September at 5pm. This is our chance to speak up. I’ve invited a range of voices from across the town, residents, professionals, and community leaders, to share why this level of development is unsustainable. I urge you to read, reflect, and submit your response before the deadline. Click here to read to the Local Plan.

This month we also have another great competition: two pairs of tickets for the Cliffs Pavilion, Southend. Love Sensation Live honours five decades of house, disco, and club classics in one night of live music and dance on Saturday, 27 September. Apply at Oraclepublications.co.uk by 19 September at noon.

Good Luck!

Emma Wynne-Morgan
Publisher