The aim of the Better Queensway scheme is to transform this area of central Southend into a vibrant new community with high quality housing and outdoor space, providing an attractive place for people of all ages to live, socialise and play.
Following the withdrawal of Sanctuary/Swan Housing Association, we remain committed to the project.
We are now the sole owners of Porters Place LLP, the company set up to deliver the regeneration.
We are considering several options to continue with the project.
These options include:
- taking on the developer role and awarding construction contracts for the work needed
- getting an alternative partner to continue with the current scheme. The existing LLP could be used for this
- Reviewing the current scheme and coming up with an alternative for consideration. This would continue to place residents at the heart of the regeneration
Although we are carefully assessing what our next steps will be, we remain committed to finding a solution so we can take a project forward and transform this area for the benefit of the local community and city.
Our priority is to get clarity on the best way forward for everyone as soon as possible, in line with Full Council's ongoing unanimous support of the project.
The intention is to report back to a future meeting of Cabinet on these findings and to recommend a way forward.
Closure of Essex Street car park
Work is starting soon on the Better Queensway project.
Because of this, the Essex Street car park will close at 12:01AM on Monday 8 September 2025.
The car park is closing so builders can set up a work area. They will be doing big changes to the roads nearby, like:
- filling in the Queensway underpass
- taking down some bridges
- fixing and improving the road surface
If you live nearby or are visiting, please plan ahead and find somewhere else to park during this time.
The nearest alternative parking can be found at:
- Short Street car park
- The Victoria Shopping Centre
- Tylers Avenue and York Road car park
- Warrior Square car park
- University Square car park
- Clarence Road car park
Further details on parking can be found on our car parking directory.
For more information email BetterQueensway@southend.gov.uk or Cathryn Wright, Community Engagement Officer, Taylor Woodrow cathryn.wright@taylorwoodrow.com