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The new Southend on Sea Local Plan proposes to reduce this to 14,700 up to 2045 if approved and gives much greater control to the Council. Adopting the Plan will also reduce the risk of speculative applications coming forward in unsuitable locations and enable the council to optimise the benefits for residents.
Ministers have ordered Basildon Council to accelerate its long-delayed Local Plan, prompting fierce debate over housing, local democracy and the protection of green spaces. While some believe intervention had become inevitable, many residents fear thousands of homes could be built before roads, schools and health services are ready.
Green Party campaigner Simon Gittus, who stood in West Leigh at the recent local elections, is calling for tougher action against private equity firms after Southend City Council confirmed that companies operated by Modella Capital owe more than £200,000 in business rates and other liabilities.
Health & Wellbeing
Thousands more NHS dental appointments are being made available to people across Essex as part of NHS Essex’s ongoing efforts to improve access to care. In the two years up to May 2026, 2,400 new patients were able to book appointments with NHS dentists across Essex.
Our Community
The Southend Food and Drink Festival is returning in 2026 following a successful debut, with organisers planning even more participating venues, exclusive offers and prizes as they celebrate the city’s thriving hospitality scene.
Local Charities
Little Havens has unveiled a stunning new sensory garden inspired by Disney’s “Moana”, created with The Green Genie Brothers and The Walt Disney Company UK & Ireland. Designed to be fully accessible, the immersive space offers children with complex needs and their families a magical place to explore, relax and make lasting memories.
General Interest
Fresh from dazzling millions on Strictly Come Dancing, La Voix is back – bigger, bolder and more fabulous than ever as she announces her most spectacular live theatre tour yet, heading to stages across the UK in spring 2027 with La Voix Live.
Enter our Competitons ...
Whether you’re a seasoned golfer, just starting out, or simply looking for a great time with family and friends, Golf.One offers an incredible indoor golf experience. Play world-famous courses, take on fun challenges, or just enjoy a relaxed social session in a state-of-the-art TrackMan simulator.
Southend United League Position
| # | Team | Played | P | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
![]() | 16 | Scunthorpe United | 0 | 0 |
![]() | 17 | Solihull Moors | 0 | 0 |
| 18 | Southend United | 0 | 0 | |
![]() | 19 | Sutton United | 0 | 0 |
![]() | 20 | Tamworth | 0 | 0 |
INSIDE THIS ISSUE
Whether you’re a seasoned golfer, just starting out, or simply looking for a great time with family and friends, Golf.One offers an incredible indoor golf experience. Play world-famous courses, take on fun challenges, or just enjoy a relaxed social session in a state-of-the-art TrackMan simulator.
Current housing growth increases demand on healthcare services in Essex. Local planning often neglects NHS consultation, risking overstretched services. Coordinated planning and investment are crucial to meet the needs of growing communities and maintain service quality.
Jotman’s Farm, a historic Greenbelt site in Castle Point, faces a major planning application for 675 homes amidst planning failures. Local groups demand a sound local plan to protect this vulnerable Grey Belt land.
Malta and Southend face similar environmental challenges from rapid development and population growth. Community campaigns highlight the importance of sustainable planning, protecting green and blue spaces, and investing in resilient infrastructure for thriving coastal communities.
Local residents complain of poor Royal Mail service with delays affecting vital mail. Ofcom fined Royal Mail £21 million for failing targets. MP David Burton-Sampson calls for urgent improvements following a disappointing survey.
Plans for 5,000 homes north of Bournes Green threaten Green Belt and worsen traffic congestion on already overloaded local roads and A127/A13, raising serious environmental and infrastructure concerns.
Southend’s future prosperity relies on developing a strong workforce through collaboration between businesses, educators, and public sector partners. Essex Chambers leads efforts to align skills training with local economic needs and support a diverse, resilient economy.
Things to do in Southend!
Boredom? Never heard of it — not in Southend! Whether you’re a local on the lookout for fresh adventures or visiting for the weekend, you’ve just stumbled across your ultimate guide to fun.
Recipes By Judy Barden
A simple and refreshing blueberry and lime semifreddo recipe, perfect for summer gatherings. Easy to prepare ahead and serve chilled for a delightful dessert that serves eight.
UP AND COMING EVENTS
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