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the time is now
CONTENTS INTRODUCTION PAGES 1-5 PROFILE PAGES 6-25 IMAGERY PAGES 26-50 OUTLINE MAP INSIDE BACK COVER
RECOGNISING SOUTHEND IS THE RIGHT CITY RIGHT NOW. GEOGRAPHICALLY
SOUTHEND-ON-SEA AS A CITY IT IS BIG, COMPACT AND CONNECTED. IT’S THE LARGEST AND
WHY THE TIME IS NOW MOST VISITED PLACE IN ESSEX; ITSELF ONE OF THE LARGEST
Southend was already operating as a city more than two COUNTIES IN THE UK CURRENTLY WITHOUT A CITY.
decades ago, when it made its first bid to have this officially
recognised. In the intervening years we have continued to Three reasons to confirm City status
push forward, embrace change and improve the quality of The partnership behind the bid is strongly representative of the people and the many institutions of
life for the people of Southend and the wider community.
Southend. The bid has already been endorsed by the sub-regional economic partnership and the
The numerous developments across the Borough result from North Sea Commission. It has three core themes:
long-established partnerships and shared goals between
businesses, cultural institutions, education providers, the Local
Authority, and most importantly, the people of Southend.
Southend has also made the most of its prominent position
1 THE FIRST CITY OF ESSEX - A CITY IN ALL BUT NAME
Southend is the largest conurbation in Essex, the No 1 visitor destination and a major hub of
within the Thames Gateway. culture, commerce and learning.
2
Southend is much more than a commercial success. Its
cultural achievements are exceptional. It has strong Royal SOUTHEND-ON-SEA’S STORY IS THE STORY OF THE UK - A PLACE OF OPPORTUNITY
connections, and a rich historic legacy from its Roman, Saxon, Southend’s story is the story of the UK - a place of opportunity with a long history, a dynamically
medieval and Victorian past. There are 7 miles of quality Blue changing business and tourism base, and an iconic seaside resort. Its story is a quintessentially
Flag beaches, a strong military heritage, a long-established British story.
football league club, major theatres that are on the nation’s
premier touring circuit, and the longest pleasure pier in the
world. Add to this the exceptional ancient woodland and the
3 THE NATURAL POINT ON SOUTHEND-ON-SEA’S JOURNEY - BECOMING A CITY
many beautiful parks and it becomes clear why six million visits The time is now. Recognition of its city status represents the natural point in the journey that
a year make Southend the number one visitor destination in Southend has been on since the early 1800s.
the East of England (that’s more visitors than Cambridge
and Colchester).
The whole Borough of Southend-on-Sea feels, functions, and
welcomes as an energetic British city should. Its dynamic
city centre is at the core of the rural areas and smaller towns
located in neighbouring districts (who all strongly back
Southend’s city status bid). The Borough has a large and 01
diverse economic base that is multi-sectoral, born of the
wealth of talent, both home-grown and incoming, that drives
economic opportunity. Retail, tourism, entertainment, hi-tech
manufacturing, aviation-related industries, medical industries,
Higher and Further education, financial services, fishing and
new creative media all thrive in Southend.INTRODUCTION
1
THE FIRST CITY OF ESSEX
A city in all but name
Essex is one of the largest, most diverse and historic counties in England. It is Other major employers, such as Ipeco, started as small firms in the area and have
characterised by large urban areas, the Thames estuary, spectacular and varied grown into internationally competitive businesses. These major Southend-based
coastlines and magnificent rural landscapes. Given the county’s size and status it companies support an important supply chain of smaller businesses who all
is anomalous that it does not currently have a city within its borders. The case for contribute to the strong and dynamic knowledge base of Southend’s economy.
Southend to be that city is simple and compelling; it is the largest, most ambitious
Southend has a higher self-employment rate than the average for both Essex
and diverse urban centre in the county.
and Great Britain as a whole. The rich mix of culture, business and quality
Uniquely in Essex, Southend already has all the geographic and urban environment provides fertile ground for entrepreneurs, artists and the many
attributes of a city, with the centre serving a diverse catchment population people working in creative industries. Metal Culture recently moved into the
that reaches out to the surrounding districts of Rochford and Castle Point. newly renovated Chalkwell Hall providing innovative creative space for artists
Rochford is a predominantly rural district, and Castle Point is home to and inspiration for major cultural events. East 15, the internationally renowned
established towns Hadleigh, Benfleet and Canvey Island. Together the acting school, opened a new centre in a refurbished church in central
population exceeds 325,000 people, for whom Southend is the centre for Southend in 2008, whilst the Digital Exploration Centre (DEC), another example
employment, leisure, shopping, and all the resources of a city. of Southend’s innovative ambitions, is defining the environment in which
collaboration and knowledge transfers between industry, academia and artists
In both its economic and cultural variation, Southend stands alone in the county.
can flow freely. The DEC is based on the hugely successful Ars Electronica in
The airport, currently undergoing major expansion through significant private
Linz, Austria.
sector investment, and large successful industrial and employment areas make
Southend a great place to do business. While the 7 miles of beaches, amazing With its imposing art deco building overlooking Southend’s Western Esplanade,
natural environments, over 650 acres of excellent public parks and open spaces, the 1630-seat Cliffs Pavilion is the only theatre in Essex classified as a “No1 House” -
a strong retail core and vibrant and diverse cultural scenes make it a great place a major theatre of national importance. Together with the beautiful Palace Theatre
to live. And with one of the longest (some say the longest) coastlines in England, it and the spectrum of other performance spaces across the Borough, Southend
makes sense that the first city of Essex should be the largest and most successful enjoys the widest range of theatre arts in the region.
coastal destination in the county.
The University of Essex has recognised Southend’s national importance by
Southend’s accessibility is a critical factor in making it the most visited place in creating a campus alongside the long-established College of Further
the East of England. The last few years have seen major upgrades in road, rail Education in Central Southend. Its impact on the cultural dynamism of the
and cycling infrastructure. These investments will help secure Southend’s future central area is considerable, with new bars, clubs and restaurants opening to
as a major destination for business and millions of visitors, in the process serve a growing demand in the cultural economy. It is also expanding. New
02 avoiding the pitfall of many seaside conurbations that rely too heavily on university space, integrated with a major new twenty-first-century public library,
one economic sector. will be completed in 2013. These developments will also provide more space
for South Essex College, acknowledged as one of the largest and most
In fact, Southend’s economy is exceptionally robust. It is a mature economy
ambitious further education colleges in the UK (and the largest in the Eastern
recognised by business and academic sectors as one of the most important
region) with over 19,000 students, the majority of whom are based in the
places of opportunity and growth in Essex. It’s why major companies like Olympus
Southend campus.
and RBS have been in Southend for many years, employing thousands of people.INTRODUCTION
SOUTHEND-ON-SEA’S STORY IS
2
THE STORY OF THE UK
A place of opportunity
Southend is a very British city, embodying different aspects of British urban life, The challenges of the nation’s recent history have been viewed as opportunities
culture and industry in one unique coastal area. It has always been a place in Southend: meeting the demands of population growth since the mid-to-late
where people want to live. Inward migration has been a constant feature. Victorian and post-war periods, providing effective infrastructure to support the
Families have relocated from East London since the 1940s but more recently economic changes that have taken place in the UK since the Queen’s
Southend has welcomed significant numbers from all over the world with Coronation, and, a particular challenge for Southend, maintaining its status as
growing communities from Pakistan, Poland and the Czech Republic, China, an attractive day-trip and holiday destination over the 200 years since Princess
the Philippines and from across Africa. The energy and dynamism this brings to Caroline first came to bathe. That was an event that sparked a popular trend for
the town is truly cosmopolitan. visiting Southend that has remained undiminished.
Southend hosts many city-scale events, among them the Festival of the Air, The most notable changes in Southend’s urbanisation since the Victorian
Leigh Folk Festival and the major Hindu Festival of Ganesh. It is home to boom can be traced to the late 1960s and early 1970s. It was then that the
internationally important Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs) and nature Borough took the confident decision to take national economic policy
reserves along the Thames Estuary. The extensive transport infrastructure for further than most towns and cities and consider a long-term view of the local
road, rail and air makes all of these and more easily accessible to a huge economy, steering it away from reliance upon tourism to embrace commerce
catchment area. and financial services. Major new office areas were developed along Victoria
Avenue to the north of the city centre, and a new Civic Centre was officially
Opportunity goes hand in hand with education and Southend has always
opened by the Queen Mother in 1967. The UK was changing, and England’s
provided an important seat of learning for adults and young people from all over
seaside destinations were feeling the impacts of a change in long-established
Essex. In fact, it has dramatically extended its facilities over recent decades in
economic and industrial trends. Southend did not wait for change to come.
line with the growth of Further and Higher Education across the nation. These
It defined and embraced new opportunities, and this optimism and
developments support commerce and employment in the area; a point
opportunity-taking remains part of Southend’s spirit today as new, exciting
recognised by the Government as it maintains here a long-standing base for
and ambitious developments take place across the Borough.
Her Majesty’s Revenue and Customs.
We do like to be beside the seaside. The British have a great affinity for the
seaside, not surprising as Great Britain has a longer coastline than Italy, France
or Spain. Most people in the UK will visit the British seaside, and many will return 03
Southend-on-Sea did not wait for regularly - wherever they live in the country. The fate of the traditional British
seaside experience is an often-debated subject but Southend’s popularity has
change to come. It defined and never waned. There are, of course, the traditional thrill rides, beaches and the
Golden Mile but Southend continues to build on these for new generations of
visitors. 2011 sees the completion of City Beach, the major transformation of
embraced new opportunities Southend’s iconic seaside experience, reducing the impact of the car andINTRODUCTION
2
Continued
improving the seafront for families and creating new entertainment opportunities. demonstrate its confidence as a leading cultural centre. For more than a
Southend can also claim to have the cleanest beaches in the East of England, century, programmes of classical music have mixed with the modern, bringing
five being awarded the coveted Blue Flag in May 2011 (out of 16 across the together the cultural past and present.
region). The Southend seaside experience has heritage and tradition, but it also
Fairgrounds and exhilarating rides have long been part of Southend’s unique
has both feet firmly in the twenty-first century.
offer. This remains true today with the popular Adventure Island Fun Park, situated
These are current developments, but for millennia the area around what is on both sides of Southend’s world-famous pier, providing thrills and excitement for
now Southend has drawn people to the tidal areas for food, farming, trade all ages. The Pier Hill fairground was first opened in 1889 with rollercoasters arriving
and safety. We can trace back human habitation for 350,000 years. There at the Kursaal in 1894. The infamous and truly terrifying Wall of Death opened
are remains of Roman settlements in Shoeburyness and Southend was an in 1929.
important Saxon settlement. The 2003 discovery of the 7th Century Prince of
For centuries Southend has been an important part of the commercial fishing
Prittlewell, buried with his magnificent and priceless hoard, provides evidence
industry with a lively community thriving in historic Old Leigh, to the west of the
of Southend’s pre-eminence as a Saxon stronghold. This find is of international
Borough. The cockle sheds and fish restaurants are a major attraction for
significance and is on a par with the finds at Sutton Hoo. Essex, ‘the land of the
tourists visiting Southend. Shellfish landed by the local fishing industry are
East Saxons’, was a Saxon stronghold, and what is now Southend must have
traded right across Britain, Europe and the Far East. Boat-building and
been an important settlement.
maintenance have, as a consequence, long been an important industry in
Southend’s long and fascinating history is here to be discovered. The Local Old Leigh. Recreational and competition fishing are also strong in Southend,
Authority and its partners are planning a major new museum to promote its rich enticing anglers from far and wide to its historic fishing sites.
heritage as one of the most important and historic places on the Thames Estuary:
a vantage point from which to tell the story of this ancient and modern gateway
to England.
Cultural trends in arts and entertainment have changed radically in the UK
over the years but Southend has always been in the vanguard, responding The Southend-on-Sea seaside
04 eagerly to new opportunities. In the post-war boom for popular entertainment,
it built large ball rooms, like the Kursaal, where so many young people met
their future husbands and wives. Mods and Rockers would convene along the
experience has plenty of heritage,
seafront (and still do), Laurel and Hardy played here in 1952, staying in the
Palace Hotel, and the Beatles played twice in the 1960s. Southend’s many but it also has both feet firmly in
clubs, cultural and music venues, the varied festivals including Ganesh, folk
music, Polish and film, the artistic spaces and galleries around the Borough the 21st century.INTRODUCTION
THE NATURAL POINT ON
3
SOUTHEND-ON SEA’S JOURNEY
Becoming a city
Southend has never stood still or allowed itself to stagnate. Indeed there Southend has an important military heritage that first emerged in the early
has never been a slow or uneventful part of its journey since the beginning Victorian period at Shoeburyness to the east of the Borough. During the 1840s
of its modern age. Along the way there have been many significant the Royal Artillery Ranges in Woolwich became increasingly difficult to use
and challenging times, all of which remain as influences on the vibrant and due to their proximity to the shipping routes along the Thames. Shoeburyness
successful place that Southend is today. Unlike some other coastal towns was chosen as the new firing range, and in 1854 a permanent station was
and cities, it has always sought to engage with its rich cultural heritage established to support the Crimean War effort. The Garrison is now a unique
while building new opportunities for the future. residential area with all of the Victorian buildings expertly preserved.
The military heritage is also visible at the Shoebury Boom, a Cold War trap
Many ancient settlements form part of Southend’s story, particularly those at
for submarines reaching far out into the estuary, in the mulberry harbour
Prittlewell, Milton and Temple Sutton (home to the Knights Templar), but it
(a Second World War relic) and the military exercises that still take place in
was the regular visits by the Princess of Wales in the early 1800s that would
Shoeburyness and on Foulness Island. It may be for these reasons that the
ultimately change Southend for ever. She came to ‘take the waters’, using one
defence contractor QinetiQ maintains a presence here.
of the new bathing machines designed to maintain the bather’s modesty.
This high-profile Royal interest sparked a fashionable rush to Southend which Southend’s expansion continued throughout the early 1900s, as the population
has never ended. The Royal Family have continued to visit regularly, the increased significantly between the late Victorian/early Edwardian periods and
Queen’s visit in 1999 being most notable. again after the Second World War. The broad range of architectural styles across
the Borough captures the story of its developments over the years. The population
Classic Regency development, stimulated by the Royalty-inspired interest in
of Southend is now on a city scale and continues to grow due to the quality of life,
Southend, catered for the growing visitor numbers and those arriving for a new life
the richness of its culture and its strong economic and educational resources.
and new opportunities. The Victorians then greatly increased the rate of building in
both central Southend and the surrounding urban areas. By 1856 the railway age But this is not the end of the journey. Investments in the town continue apace
had arrived with the opening of Southend station, linking to Fenchurch Street via as it looks to the future. The new public library, the expanding academic
Tilbury. Southend now has nine mainline railway stations within the Borough on two campus at Elmer Square, the multi-million-pound investment in London
separate overland lines into London’s Fenchurch Street and Liverpool Street. Southend Airport, investments in the theatres, and the growing technical and
cultural industries are just a few examples our confidence in the future. People
want to be in Southend. For everyone - for those who live, visit and do business
05
here, the time is now.PROFILE
The Local Authority and Members of Parliament
Southend-on-Sea was formed as municipal borough in 1892 with the function of local government shared with
Essex County Council. Since 1998 it has been a unitary authority, separate from the rest of Essex Country Council.
A total of 51 councillors across seventeen wards each serve for four years. an Executive Board, a Performance Management Group and three Priority
The Council is run through a 10 member executive committee headed Leadership Groups. The Executive Board acts as the key decision making body
by the Leader of the Council. for the partnership and has membership representation from: the Council;
NHS South East Essex; Essex Police; Essex Fire and Rescue Service; the Voluntary
Southend-on-Sea is represented by two MPs at Westminster, Southend West
Sector and Community Sector.
(David Amess – Conservative) and Rochford & Southend East (James
Duddridge – Conservative). Voluntary Sector Funding
There are many successful funding arrangements within the Council already in
The Local Strategic Partnership place which have beneficial outcomes for the communities of Southend-on-
Southend Together was established in 2002 as the LSP for Southend-on-Sea. Sea. The main source of funding is through the Council’s Voluntary & Community
Its membership and governance structure has evolved over the years and Sector Grants Programme, which last year (2010/11) committed £613,500 to
provides a strong platform for delivery of the Community Plan. Southend fund many worthwhile Voluntary projects. All these projects benefit Southend-
Together has strong commitment from partners across Southend-on-Sea which on-Sea residents and communities with funding set to continue for 2011/12
is demonstrated at every level. The partnership is chaired by the Leader of the with £647,000 being committed. The Southend Together Community Cohesion
Council and has democratic accountability through Elected Members on all Strategy for 2009/11 shows that there are over 600 community groups and
key decision-making boards. The Southend Together Partnership consists of organisations registered with the Voluntary Services Asssociation SAVS.
The Southend-on-Sea City Status Partnership Board
The bid for Southend-on-Sea City Status is based on a strong partnership between a wide range of organisations across the whole Borough.
The Board is chaired by HQ Theatres who run both the Cliffs Pavilion and Palace Theatre. The organisations represented are:
> London Southend Airport > Southend Evening Echo > Metal Culture > Prospects
> Delamere Estates > Southend-on-Sea Borough Council > Ventrica Ltd > Olympus Keymed
> South Essex College > Castle Point Borough Council > Digital Exploration Centre Trust Ltd > St. Bernards High School
> University of Essex > Rochford District Council > National Express > Southend United Football Club
> Southend-on-Sea Carnival Association > Essex Chamber of Commerce > Ipeco > HQ Theatres
06
A HISTORIC TIMELINE OF SOUTHEND-ON-SEA
The timeline that follows throughout the Profile section highlights
some important dates and events in Southend-on-Sea’s long
and rich history.PROFILE OF A CITY-ON-SEA
Royal Visits to Southend-on-Sea
Early 600s 1801 – 1803 1915 1916 1920 1929 1964 1967 1968 1991 1999 2002
Saxon Royalty Charlotte Princess Queen Mary King George HRH Duke of HRH Prince George Her Majesty New Civic New train HRH Princess HM Queen HM Queen
buried in of Wales visited to visited the Palace V visited the York opened opened the Pier’s Queen Centre service on the Anne, the Elizabeth and Elizabeth visits
Prittlewell, take the waters in Hotel which was soldiers at the new Prince George Elizabeth, the opened by Her Pier opened by Princess Royal, HRH The Duke Southend-on-
the ancient 1801 and stayed renamed during Shoeburyness Priory Park Extension and HRH Queen Mother Majesty Queen HRH Princess visits the Pier’s of Edinburgh Sea as part
settlement of in Grand Terrace the First World War Garrison the Duchess of York visits Southend- Elizabeth, the Anne, the lifeboat house visit Southend- of the Jubilee
Southend-on- (now Royal as Queen Mary laid the foundation on-Sea Queen Mother Princess Royal on-Sea celebrations.
Sea Terrace) in 1803 Hospital stone for the new
hospital
Southend-on-Sea Borough – Demography and Urban Form
The total population of Southend-on-Sea in 2009 was 164,200, an increase of 1,100 since 2008.
Since 2005 it has maintained positive year-on-year population growth, influenced by in-migration
from Eastern Europe, and by an influx of students to the university campus.
The major characteristics of Southend-on-Sea’s population are:
• A high population density - A population density per sq km of 3,910, higher than the respective figures for Essex,
the East of England and England and ranking the Borough as the 20th most densely populated Local Authority in the country.
• A demographic structure moving towards the norm - An old and aging population, but one which is ageing slower than the national average
and moving toward the national level. The population of the youngest age groups (up to age 24) is also moving closer to the national average.
• A growing population - By 2015 Southend-on-Sea’s population is expected to grow by nearly 5% to 170,700.
The table below shows the density of Southend-on-Sea and the neighbouring catchment Boroughs of Castle Point and Rochford.
Population Residents/sq mile Jobs
Southend-on-Sea (16.1 sq miles) 164,200 10,199 76,000
Castle Point (17.3 sq miles) 89,200 5,156 25,000
Rochford (65 sq miles) 83,100 1,278 26,000
07
Source – ONS figures for 2008
BEFORE 500,000 BC
Flint at Westcliff High School for Girls. This is the earliest known humanly struck flint
from Essex. It is evidence that early humans were in this area before the Anglian ice
sheets diverted the River Thames into its present course.EASTWOOD
Guide to Southend-on-Sea’s Urban Areas
PRITTLEWELL
LEIGH-ON-SEA
Although the Borough is formed of one continuous urban
WESTCLIFF
-ON-SEA
SOUTHCHURCH
landscape on a city scale, it can be defined under eight
CENTRAL
SOUTHEND SHOEBURYNESS
-ON-SEA THORPE BAY
character areas, highlighting the Borough’s diversity.
Character Area Description
Central Southend-on-Sea Covers Southend-on-Sea’s ‘City Centre’ and the main high-street retail areas, civic quarter including the Civic Centre and Courts, the University of Essex and South Essex
College. Also includes Victoria Avenue which is the largest office area in the Borough and home to HM Revenue & Customs, the main commercial seafront including the
Golden Mile (City Beach), the Kursaal Estate and conservation areas of Milton, Clifftown and Warrior Square. Major areas of public realm and green space, Central Station
and the main bus station and important car parks
Westcliff-on-Sea Late Victorian and Edwardian era housing. Popular beaches, both the Cliffs Pavilion and Palace Theatre, and large numbers of smaller hotels and B&Bs. Westcliff Station is
located at the southern end of Hamlet Court Road, an important and culturally vibrant shopping and leisure area
Prittlewell The original historic settlement of Southend (Southend derived its name as the ‘South End’ of Prittlewell) and home to the modern day gateway to the town through the
A127. Prittlewell Station, Southend United Football Club, Southend University Hospital, and varied Victorian to post-war housing. The location of the Prittlewell Prince, the 7th
Century Anglo-Saxon hoard discovered in 2003
Eastwood Mainly housing, including significant post-war and modern developments with some important industrial areas including Progress Road Industrial Estate
Leigh-on-Sea Includes thriving retail areas with significant number of independents, and historic Old Leigh fishing village (the original coastal settlement). Leigh Station, quality residential
areas, large number of restaurants pubs and thriving cultural and creative industry sector. Location of important parks and green spaces including Belfairs Woods, Belton Hill
Nature Reserve, Two Tree Island Nature Reserve, Chalkwell Beach and Chalkwell Park
Southchurch Large residential areas including Victorian and Edwardian, Southchurch Park, Southend East Station. Southchurch Road is a busy secondary shopping area. Access to large
retail area at Fossets Farm, Garon Sport Centre and recreational areas
Thorpe Bay The most affluent and low-density area with some very large Edwardian and inter-war houses. Includes excellent beaches, picturesque golf course, and Thorpe Bay Station
Shoeburyness Diverse communities and historic location with important military heritage. Large industrial areas including QinetiQ, the Garrison development with all of the original
architectural features carefully preserved, the impressive Gunners Park (home to Sites of Special Scientific Interest) and major visitor attraction at East Beach
08
EARLY 7TH CENTURY
‘The Prince of Prittlewell’ is buried - Internationally important
discovery of a virtually in-tact early 7th century tomb of a
‘prince’ of the East Saxon royal family.PROFILE OF A CITY-ON-SEA
Southend-on-Sea’s Diverse Economic Base
Southend-on-Sea is the largest urban area in Essex, acting as a major employment centre for people
living in and outside of the Borough. The employment catchment area extends throughout the county
with the greatest proportion of commuters travelling into Southend-on-Sea from neighbouring Rochford
and Castle Point.
Within Thames Gateway South Essex, the main sub-regional employment emissions per capita. Its 2009 report highlighted Southend-on-Sea as
hubs are Southend-on-Sea, Basildon and Thurrock. Southend-on-Sea has one of the top cities in the UK likely to emerge from the recession.
demonstrated for years that it can attract large businesses to the Borough,
Southend-on-Sea’s proximity to London and growth potential has allowed the
and encourage existing business to grow. It is therefore a strong stand alone
Borough to develop a multifunctional character that is comparable to Brighton,
employment hub that is by no means completely dependent upon the Capital.
Canterbury and Cambridge. This is unlike many towns in the UK that are obviously
In its 2011 report, the Centre for Cities recognised Southend-on-Sea as one of shaped by one or two key functions. For example, Blackpool can be labelled as
the top ten cities in the UK with the highest business stocks per 10,000 head of a seaside town given its reliance on the tourism trade, Tunbridge Wells is defined
population, and as one of the top five cities in the UK with the lowest CO2 as a dormitory town given its commuter population and Oxford is characterised
by its University-town label.
Business Demography
There were 5,585 VAT and/or PAYE registered enterprises in Southend-on-Sea in 2009. These make
up the largest group in Thames Gateway South Essex, at 27% of the sub-region’s enterprises.
Southend-on-Sea’s business density in 2009 was just over 542 local enterprises The Borough’s economic and employment foundations are varied and are not
for every 10,000 residents aged between 16 and 64. This compares to a Great reliant upon one seasonal sector as can be seen from the graph below (GVA
Britain average business density of just below 534. The level of business formation by Industry). Southend-on-Sea is particularly strong in the Business Services and
has been higher, relative to Southend-on-Sea’s population, than the country, Finance sectors, and there is a significant health sector due in large part to the
region and Essex in three years between 2004 and 2008.* presence of Southend University Hospital in Westcliff, and the medical industries
cluster that is anchored by Olympus Keymed.
09
*Southend-on-Sea Local Economic Assessment November 2010
1110
Foundation of Prittlewell Priory. Founded in the early 12th century by
Robert FitzSuen. This was a Cluniac monastery until 1536, when it was closed,
and later converted to a private house.GVA (CURRENT PRICES) BY INDUSTRY (% OF TOTAL GVA) 2007 Focus on Tourism and The Visitor Economy
40%
Since 2000 Southend-on-Sea’s visitor economy has been a
real and tangible success story, and the offer has continued
35%
to be attractive despite the national downturn in visits to
30% British seaside resorts that first began in the 1960s. There are
25% approximately 6m visitors a year to Southend-on-Sea (East
of England Tourism Impact Study 2009), and the economic
20%
impact of tourism has grown from £270m in 2007 to £335m
15%
in 2010*. Tourism is therefore an important sector for the
10% Southend and the sub-regional economy, and Southend’s
5% attractiveness to visitors is due to the wide range of
attractions including the many Blue Flag beaches, Adventure
0%
Island which attracts over 2m visitors a year, and the range
Agriculture, Production Construction Distribution, Business Public administration,
forestry and transport and services and education, health of festivals and cultural opportunities throughout the year.
fishing communication finance and other services Southend-on-Sea’s excellent accessibility by rail, road, air
and cycling has also enabled people from across the
UK GREATER ESSEX
Source ONS, Headline GVA by NUTS3 - As referenced in Southend-on-Sea
country to enjoy what the area has to offer, and it is a place
EAST OF ENGLAND SOUTHEND-ON-SEA
Local Economic Assessment November 2010 that people of all ages come back to again and again.
*East of England Tourism Economic Impact study 2010
Long-term employment trends in Southend-on-Sea –
Employment Sector 1990 2000 2010
Distribution, Transport and Communication 22,630 23,550 18,530
Construction 4,560 3,300 3,980
Production 9,850 9,060 3,980
Business Services and Finance 15,950 17,100 17,190
Public Admin, Education, Health and Other Services 19,340 21,440 28,710
Agriculture, Forestry and Fishing 190 10 250
10 Totals 72,520 74,460 72,640
Source Experian 2010 - As referenced in Southend-on-Sea
Local Economic Assessment November 2010
1481
First recorded mention of the name ‘Southend’, in the will of
John Skott. The will refers to a lane called South End, now Old
Southend Road and Southchurch Avenue.PROFILE OF A CITY-ON-SEA
As can be seen from the below graph (Local sector advantages), the most Whilst it is not included in the Local sector advantages graph (due to the bulk
concentrated industrial sector is the ‘manufacture of medical and surgical of the employment being within Rochford District), the influence and importance
equipment and orthopaedic appliances’. In Great Britain the sector accounts of London Southend Airport is a significant factor on the local economy of
for 0.13% of all jobs; in Southend-on-Sea, it accounts for over 1.5% of Southend-on-Sea, Rochford and the wider sub-region. The table below highlights
employment. Southend-on-Sea is also a centre for public-sector activities, not the importance of the Airport as an economic driver for the area and significant
solely due to the presence of the Council, but also because it is home to a employment hub.
major sub-regional hospital, Further and Higher Education facilities and schools
The skills that are required in Manufacturing, Repair and Overhaul (MRO)
which serve a catchment area well beyond the Borough boundaries.
are specialist and technical, and the Airport is now home to an apprentice
Monetary intermediation, business and management consultancy activities, academy run by Prospects College.
auxillary functions to insurance and pension funding and unclassified business
activities are all strongly represented compared to Great Britain, as are retail
and restaurant sectors.
Southend and Rochford: Airport-related employment
Local sector advantages, Southend 2008 (SIC2003)
1,600
PASSENGER AND FREIGHT TRANSPORT
7487 : Other business activities n.e.c.
1,400 ADVANCED SUPPLY CHAIN
5242 : Retail sale of clothing MRO
MEDICAL TECHNOLOGY
5211 : Retail sale in non-specialised stores RETAIL AND RESTAURANTS
TOURISM-RELATED 1,200
8021 : General secondary education
BUSINESS ACTIVITIES
8511 : Hospital activities PUBIC SECTOR, HEALTH & EDUCATION
1,000
5530 : Restaurants
6720 : Activities auxilary to insurance & pension funding
800
8531 : Social work activities with accommodation
8042 : Adult and other education n.e.c.
600
6512 : Other monetary intermediation
8022 : Technical and vocational secondary education
400
7511 : General (overall) public servies activities
9271 : Gambling and betting activities
200
7414 : Business & management consultancy activities
3310 : Manufacturing of mediacl and surgical
equipment and orthopaedic appliances 0
0 2 4 6 8 10 12 2006 2007 2008
Location Quotient (GB=1.0)
Source Southend Local Assessment November 2010 Source Southend Local Assessment November 2010
(Figures exclude Ipeco which employ approximately 400 staff in Rochford)
11
1536
Dissolution of Monasteries, including Prittlewell Priory. All monasteries was closed down
between 1536 and about 1540. Many were totally deserted but some, including
Prittlewell Priory, was converted to secular use.Education and Learning in Southend-on-Sea
University of Essex – Southend-on-Sea Campus
The University of Essex is one of the UK’s leading academic institutions with a reputation for top quality
teaching and research. It is a research-intensive institution with a strong commitment to Southend-on-Sea
and the region and an international outlook and reach.
In the most recent Research Assessment Exercise (2008) the University was The University has attracted over £70m capital investment in Southend-on-Sea
rated ninth out of 159 institutions. Over half of its subject areas were rated in through the redevelopment of brown-field sites with purpose-built developments
the top ten nationally, with four rated in the top five, confirming Essex as the and refurbishment of a Grade II listed church. The University has also successfully
leading social science university in the UK. Essex is rated fifteenth in the UK attracted over £2.5m to support a variety of research, training and development
for offering the best all-round student experience. Essex is also in the top initiatives which bring significant benefits to Southend-on-Sea. The University is
20 nationally for student satisfaction. working with Southend-on-Sea Borough Council and South Essex College to bring
forward a new £26m development in the centre of the town which will provide
The Southend-on-Sea Campus of the University of Essex, opened in 2007,
a combined public and academic library and additional academic facilities
is based in the heart of Southend-on-Sea. The Campus has a current student
including a 200-seat lecture theatre. This development has commenced and is
population of nearly 1,000 from over 50 countries and employs over 200 staff.
scheduled for completion for the beginning of the academic year 2013/14.
University of Essex Southend-on-Sea Campus - Academic Activities
School or Department Academic Scope
Essex Business School Business Administration, International Business & Entrepreneurship, Marketing, Creative Industry Management,
Global Project & Innovation Management, Community Enterprise Management
School of Health & Human Sciences Nursing (adult and mental health), Oral Health Sciences
East 15 Acting School Acting & Stage Combat, Community Theatre, Physical Theatre, World Performance
Professional Development Studies Works closely with organisations to develop high-quality accredited and non-accredited Professional Development programmes
Centre for Psychoanalytic Studies Foundation Degree in Therapeutic Communication and Therapeutic Organisations
International Academy Courses at pre-undergraduate, undergraduate, pre-Masters and postgraduate levels. Brings together all teaching
12 services and programmes developed for students with a range of non-standard qualifications
1652
Admiral Blake’s fleet re-fitted at Leigh during the Dutch Wars.PROFILE OF A CITY-ON-SEA
Education and Learning in Southend-on-Sea
South Essex College of Further and Higher Education
South Essex College is one of the country’s largest and most successful general further
education colleges, offering hundreds of courses for all ages and abilities.
Of its 19,000 students, the majority are based at its flagship Southend-on-Sea thousands more young people, adults and employers the skills, education
Campus and links to industry in and around Southend-on-Sea and the South and careers training they need to succeed in the workplace. Along with being
Essex area are vital for both the student experience and the local economy. a Founder College of the National Skills Academy for Creative & Cultural Skills,
The College’s 26,500m² Campus in Southend-on-Sea offers a range of industry the College is also a key member of NSAs for Retail, Enterprise, Manufacturing
standard learning spaces such as IT and science labs, fashion and craftwork and Financial Services as well as leading the Regional Academy for Logistics.
areas, a Nikon Academy studio, a Sony film studio, a dance studio and The College holds the prestigious Training Quality Standard which recognises
engineering space. Since moving in 2004 to its inspirational £52m new build excellent employment engagement with local businesses.
in the heart of the town centre, the number of young students doubled, giving
South Essex College - Key Information and Facts
• £63m annual turnover – the College contributes significantly to the local and sub-regional economy
• Over 19,000 students – the largest College in the Eastern Region
• One of the largest employers in Southend-on-Sea with 1,000 staff working at the Southend-on-Sea Campus
• Provides high-quality training for hundreds of employers each year
• Courses at all levels from Entry Level to Level 3 (A-Levels and A-Level equivalent), as well as 30 degree and other HE programmes
• Over 40 Apprenticeships frameworks, and bespoke training programmes tailored to business need
• Training opportunities for the unemployed, developed in partnership with Jobcentre Plus
• Success rates – above the national averages
• Judged ‘good’ with ‘outstanding features’ by Ofsted
• Excellent joint working relationship with The University of Essex
13
1793
Royal terrace and ‘New Town’ of Southend built, under the sponsorship
of Daniel Scratton, Lord of the Manor. He wanted to see South End
develop as a fashionable resort.Education and Learning in Southend-on-Sea
Southend-on-Sea Adult Community College
The Southend-on-Sea Adult Community College is a beacon college that has achieved ‘Outstanding’
in the latest Ofsted inspection. The College is an exemplar in partnership working, having created strong
working relationships with the Local Authority, local businesses, schools, Southend-on-Sea University Hospital,
local community groups and the voluntary sector.
Offering a wide curriculum, Southend-on-Sea Adult Community College The College recruits apprentices for local businesses and delivers their
achieves 80% success rates in the accredited courses and 80% success rates learning programmes alongside 700 other courses that include painting,
in its work-based learning courses with 5,500 learners in 2009/10. The College drawing, pottery, ICT and history. To promote social cohesion, a range of
is expanding and in a partnership with Belfairs School has opened a new £2m courses teaching English for speakers of other languages as well as providing
centre for adult education in Leigh. In addition, the College has received £1m skills for life are offered by the College.
to redevelop its learning centre and has opened a new business centre for
local businesses.
Education and Learning in Southend-on-Sea
Schools in the Borough
In January 2009 a total of 26,900 children attended the 55 schools in the
Borough within the primary, secondary and special sectors in Southend-on-Sea.
Of the overall total there are 13,068 females and 13,832 males. Southend- 100% of pupils gaining 5+ A*-C grades including English and Maths. These
on-Sea outperforms England’s average in all measures (21st in the country) are two of the four selective grammar schools in the Borough which are some
including the number of children gaining 5+ A*-C grades including English and of the best performing in the country and attract students from outside of the
Maths and average point score per pupil. In 2009 the best performing schools Borough. There are also varied creative and vocational offers across the schools
included Westcliff High School for Boys and Westcliff High School for Girls with in the Borough.
14
Source Southend Local Assessment November 2010
1804
The visit of Queen Caroline gives Royal Terrace it’s ‘Royal’ and
makes Southend a fashionable resort.PROFILE OF A CITY-ON-SEA
Southend-on-Sea’s Cultural Infrastructure
Southend-on-Sea has a broad range of cultural institutions and locations which support an important and growing cultural and artistic sector across
the Borough. Institutions such as Metal Culture and CoExist play an important role in creating and supporting the development of cultural infrastructure
both through the provision of space, and through strong partnership working with other organisations, schools, the University and College and the more
‘underground’ creative movements, organisations and talent that exist across the area.
Cultural Institution / Organisation Role played Local Authority (or other) Support
Metal Culture Opened a new building, the renovated Chalkwell Hall, in 2009. Host and stages cultural events at Chalkwell Hall and Funded by Arts Council and
across the Borough, and have excellent links to local schools and businesses. Metal was created by Jude Kelly and its Southend-on-Sea Borough Council
presence and impact have had a major effect on the image and performance of Southend-on-Sea culturally
Focal Point Gallery Focal Point Gallery is South Essex’s gallery for contemporary visual art, promoting and commissioning major solo Funded by Arts Council and
exhibitions, group and thematic shows, a programme of events including performances, film screenings and talks, Southend-on-Sea Borough Council
as well as offsite projects and temporary public artworks
TAP (Managed by CoExist) Epitomising the Southend-on-Sea spirit of making good use of all spaces, TAP (Temporary Arts Project) is located at Funded by Arts Council and other
the North Road Waterworks site in Westcliff, and is home to artist studios, exhibition space and art house cinema sources
space
Beecroft Art Gallery The Beecroft Art Gallery in Westcliff is home to one of the finest collections of art in the county. Consisting of some Funded by Southend-on-Sea Borough
2000 works, the collection includes pictures by Constable and Rossetti. Holds a series of innovative exhibitions each Council
year from local, national or international artists
Cliffs Pavilion 1630 seater theatre overlooking the seafront in Westcliff, classified as the only ‘No1 House’ in Essex, making it of Council-owned – operated by HQ
national importance. A variety of major shows and performances including opera, dance, plays, concerts and Theatres
pantomime. The venue’s capacity goes up to 2250 for standing events
Palace Theatre 100 years old in 2012, the 600 seat theatre in Westcliff stages a full range of touring and local performances Council-owned – operated by HQ
Theatres
East 15 Acting School Part of the University of Essex – internationally important performance conservatoire based in Clifftown Studios Part of the University of Essex
Digital Exploration Centre Trust Newly created Trust that seeks to establish Southend-on-Sea as the centre for creative collaboration between Independent Trust
business, academia and art, focused on the critical digital sectors
Level 4 Magazine Independently produced quarterly magazine for culture across Southend-on-Sea Independent
15
1829
First pier built. This enabled paddle steamers to
call at Southend for the first time.Southend-on-Sea’s Cultural Infrastructure (continued)
Cultural Institution / Organisation Role played Local Authority (or other) Support
Idea13 Online forum for culture across Southend-on-Sea Some support from Southend-on-Sea
Borough Council
Southend Education Trust An independent Trust which represents the interest of all 55 schools in the Borough, regularly sponsors innovative Independent Trust
cultural and artistic programmes in partnerships with organisations such as Metal
Southend-on-Sea Arts Council A collective of 43 locally based arts organisations - some funding from Southend Borough Council Independent
Operatic Societies Southend-on-Sea Operatic & Dramatic Society, Leigh Operatic & Dramatic Society and the Little Theatre Club Independent
Southend-on-Sea Boys and Girls Well respected nationally and internationally, the choirs are performing at the 2011 BBC Proms in the largest
Independent
Choirs symphony ever written
Southend-on-Sea’s Entertainment and Sporting Attractions
Attraction / Organisation Description Ownership
Southend-on-Sea Pier The world’s longest pleasure pier, currently attracts over 250,000 paying visitors per annum. The Council has ambitious plans for the Council-owned and run
development of a cultural events space and restaurant at the Pier Head. Home to Southend Pier Museum
Southend-on-Sea has 8 popular and excellently maintained beaches, 5 of which were awarded the coveted Blue Flag award in May
Council-owned and
8 Quality Beaches 2011, the second highest for any coastal local authority area in the country. Blue Flag is a prestigious international award scheme
managed
which acts as a guarantee to tourists that a beach they are visiting is one of the best in the world
Adventure Island The UK’s ‘Number 1’ Free Admission Fun Park and Southend-on-Sea’s largest visitor attraction – rides for all ages including rollercoasters Private
Sealife Centre Aquatic centre featuring over 40 displays of marine life from all over the world. Attracts over 100,000 visitors a year Private
Marine Activity Centre In a fantastic beachside location on Southend-on-Sea’s Eastern Esplanade the centre has an excellent reputation for providing Council-owned and run
nationally recognised water sports courses, including introductory courses in Sailing, Canoeing, Windsurfing, Powerboat Driving and
Jetskiing. A wide range of improver training is available through formal courses or more informal practice sessions and expeditions
16
1829
John Constable’s painting of Hadleigh Castle, depicting dramatic
views across the estuary, is exhibited at The Royal Academy.PROFILE OF A CITY-ON-SEA
Southend-on-Sea’s Entertainment and Sporting Attractions (continued)
Attraction / Organisation Description Ownership
Southend-on-Sea Swimming World class diving pool with 3m, 5m, 7.5m and 10m platforms, each being 3m wide for synchronised diving. Centre for swimming Council-owned and
and Diving Centre (Garon) activities for residents across the Borough. In December 2010 the GB Diving team held its Diving Assessment Camp at the centre, and run
in January 2011 the British Gas National Diving Cup 2011 Championships was also held there. It is likely to be the London 2012 Olympic
location for the GB Diving team
Odeon Cinema Eight-screen cinema located to the northern end of Southend-on-Sea High Street. Hosts the Gala nights of the Southend-on-Sea Private
Film Festival
The Kursaal Grade II listed building and iconic architectural feature on Southend-on-Sea’s seafront. The original centre for entertainment and Private
fairground rides – now home to bowling, casino, restaurant and function rooms
Westclff Casino Seafront location along the Western Esplanade with a excellent restaurant Private
Southend-on-Sea’s Club Clubbing is big business in Southend-on-Sea, with significant floorspace available. The clubs attract visitors from across the sub-region Private
Scene throughout the year
Southend United Football Long-established football league club based a Roots Hall in Westcliff. Plans for a major new stadium at Fossetts Farm are well advanced Private
Club and have planning permission
Essex County Cricket Club The Country Cricket Club maintain a pitch at Garon Park which hosts matches from the county championship each summer Private
Thorpe Hall Golf Club Popular golf course in the heart of Thorpe Bay Private
Garon Park Golf Complex High-quality 18 hole golf course to the north of the Borough - near other sports facilities at Garon Park Private
Southend Rugby Club The Rugby Club dates back to 1870. The club now has 4 pitches and excellent club-house facilities Private
Tennis Clubs There are seven private tennis clubs across the Borough Private
Fitness Centres David Lloyd, LA Fitness and Fitness First with over 11,500 members collectively Private
Outdoor pitches Across Southend-on-Sea’s parks there are 53 senior and junior football pitches, 14 cricket pitches, 8 rugby pitches, 11 bowling greens Council-owned
and outdoor gym facilities and run
17
1856
The railway comes to Southend, eventually making it a
busy seaside resort for Londoners.Cultural Participation Across Southend-on-Sea
Participation in cultural activities across Southend-on-Sea is very strong, demonstrating the breadth and variety of choice for residents and visitors alike.
Through the existing Local Area Agreement ‘Increasing Participation in Cultural Activities’, Southend-on-Sea Borough Council have undertaken a study
of participation in a range of activities.
Cultural Activity Description Attendance Figures for 2010/11
Attendance at Theatres Made up predominantly from Cliffs Pavilion and Palace Theatre 376,384
Southend-on-Sea’s Central Library is one of the most well used in the UK, and there are a further six libraries across the
Visits to Libraries 941,827
Borough
Focal Point Gallery Events & Focal Point Gallery holds regular exhibitions and workshops, many of which gain excellent reviews in the national press 36,585
Workshop Attendance
Attendance at Music Southend-on-Sea has a thriving music scene. There are many local bands who play in a host of venues across the 39,023
Concerts Borough. Venues such as the Cliffs Pavilion and Chinnery’s on the seafront attract national and international touring artists
Visits to Projects hosted or Metal host a varied range of events and exhibitions throughout the year 42,059
organised by Metal Culture
Visits to Museums Southend-on-Sea’s museums are well used and host a range of interesting exhibitions and events throughout the year 79,019
Attendance at Events The Bandstand has been a major feature of Southend-on-Sea’s heritage for many years. It is now in Priory Park where 4,720
staged at Southend-on-Sea regular outdoor concerts are held particularly in the Summer months, attracting large crowds
Bandstand in Priory Park
Attendance at Sports & Southend-on-Sea has excellent sporting facilities across the Borough which strongly encourages participation across a 1,931,945
Leisure Centres full range of sporting activities
Attendance at Olympic Southend-on-Sea has hosted some of the Olympic-related events, celebrating the run up to 2012 6,250
Related Activities
Attendance at Other The Council organise a number of other well attended and popular events across the Borough, including Southend- 64,338
Council Run Events on-Sea’s Multi-Cultural Arts Festival ‘Out of the Box’
Total 3,522,150
The figures have been collected as part of the Southend -on-Sea Borough
Council Cultural Services Service Plan 2010-13 and measures attendance at
18 council run or council affiliated sports & cultural events for the year 2010-11
1856-1863
Clifftown built. Southend’s first true housing estate; businessmen
could now live in Southend and commute to London.PROFILE OF A CITY-ON-SEA
Major Events in Southend-on-Sea
Southend-on-Sea has a strong reputation for delivering major festivals and events which have been
growing in diversity and quality over the years and now boasts a rich “feast of festivals” all year round.
The largest of the festivals is the high profile Air Festival which takes place on the last Bank Holiday weekend in May. Southend-on-Sea was the first UK seaside town to
host an Airshow and it has developed into one of the largest free air events in Europe attracting over half a million visitors every year. The Airshow is supported and
promoted by Southend-on-Sea Borough Council.
In addition to this flagship event there are a wide range of other events throughout the year.
• The Southend-on-Sea Film Festival is held in early May with more than 30 film screenings over a week. This Festival, now in its fourth year, has already earned an
excellent reputation with Ray Winston becoming the patron after starring in the premier at the 2010 Festival (Supported by Southend-on-Sea Borough Council)
• The high population of culturally skilled artists and performers have opportunities to showcase their arts at a variety of events including Britain’s largest free Folk
Festival, monthly Art on the Railings events, Concerts in the Park, Festival 9 – a month-long Festival throughout June, Leigh and Westcliff Art Trails and a winter season
of Seafront Spectaculars
• There is also an international flavour to Southend-on-Sea reflecting our wide diversity with Chinese New Year celebrations in February, the country’s biggest Hindu
Ganesh Festival staged in the Autumn, a three-day Polish Festival in September, an Italian Festival in August, visiting Russian Tallships and a week-long Carnival
programme every year
• All of these festivals and events help to support Southend-on-Sea’s economy and create a dynamic and vibrant atmosphere throughout the whole Borough that
visitors and residents can enjoy
Spaces for Events in Southend-on-Sea
Southend-on-Sea has an excellent and versatile range of existing public spaces that host events throughout the year. An ambitious and sustained regeneration
programme in Southend-on-Sea over the last few years, focused particularly on the central public spaces, has seen the improvement of existing spaces and major
new spaces created.
Public Space Description Usage and Events Photograph Ref
City Beach Southend-on-Sea’s Golden Mile has recently benefitted from a major £7m Millions come to the Golden Mile every year. Also hosts Page 38
investment to improve the area for events, promenading, cycling and for Southend-on-Sea Airshow (Festival of the Air), Southend-on-
entertainment. New bespoke lighting columns have brought back the excitement Sea Carnival, and events that require temporary structures
of the Illuminations. The City Beach is at the heart of the urban seaside experience,
being only a minute walk from the High Street 19
1890
Southend Pier is the first in the world to have an electric
tramway installed.You can also read
