Southend Council lays out vision for greener and more attractive High Street
They are set to design a transformation of the area
Southend-on-Sea City Council is moving forward with plans to improve the High Street and make it a more welcoming, attractive and enjoyable place for everyone.
The project is now entering its design phase, which will begin in April. During this stage, the detailed layout, planting plans and final features will be developed and confirmed.
This design work will help shape the wider transformation and ensure the improvements meet the needs of residents, visitors and local businesses.
Once the design phase is complete, the main construction works are expected to begin in autumn/winter. These works will bring more nature, better seating and improved public spaces into the heart of the city, creating a greener, more accessible and more enjoyable High Street for all.
The council say they want the High Street to be a place where people "want to spend more time," and say they want the area to be a "greener and more pleasant environment."
The wider programme will introduce planting, places to rest, shade and features that help break up the long stretch of the High Street.
Cllr Daniel Cowan, Leader of Southend-on-Sea City Council, said “Southend is a city to enjoy and be proud of, and the council is committed to keeping it vibrant, welcoming and full of life. Investment in the High Street, the Better Queensway project, major events such as CityJam and City Day, and new hotel developments all show Southend’s ambition. The city is thriving, forward‑looking and full of opportunity.”