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Queensway update: progress over recent months
Over the past few months, we have made good progress on the Queensway project, with a range of works completed to improve infrastructure and prepare the area for future phases.
On Sutton Road, works are progressing well. The road is being widened ready for a new mini roundabout on Southchurch Road, which will improve traffic flow and safety once installed.
Along Southchurch Road, Essex & Suffolk Water is on track to complete essential upgrades before the bank holiday, replacing ageing pipes between Queensway and Nicholson House to provide a more reliable water supply for the future. We are doing this work now, so the road does not need to be dug up again later. The westbound carriageway is due to re-open on 22 May, while the eastbound stretch will remain closed until the end of June to allow works to continue in preparation for the mini roundabout.
Work has now begun on the new road layout and the reconfiguration of the Chichester Road / Short Street junction. Once complete, this junction will support traffic flowing in all directions, improving connectivity across the area.
We know road closures can be frustrating, so we try to reduce disruption where we can.
We do this by:
- telling emergency services in advance
- telling waste and recycling teams
- telling bus companies so they can plan ahead
- sharing updates on social media
- writing to people who are most affected with clear information
We are working closely with the Southend Tourism Partnership and Southend City Business Improvement District to prepare for the busy summer period and to ensure Southend continues to welcome visitors. Our aim is to balance rapid progress in delivering the Queensway improvements with supporting residents, local businesses and visitors throughout the works.
Beyond construction, the team has also been keen to support the local environment and community. To mark Earth Day, the Queensway team took part in a local litter pick, helping to keep the area clean and welcoming. Small actions like this help look after our environment and make the area nicer for everyone.
Stay informed
To keep up to date:
- follow Southend-on-Sea City Council on social media
- sign up for newsletters
- check the Question of the Week on Facebook and Instagram
Overall, the past few months have seen strong progress, and we would like to thank residents and businesses for their continued patience, understanding and feedback as the project moves forward.
Resident information event
On 4 February, we held a meeting at Barringtons for people who live in the area. Twenty nine residents came. The event gave people a chance to talk with our staff and the Taylor Woodrow project team about the Queensway works.
People were happy with the plans, especially the idea to fill in the underpass to help stop bad behaviour and make the area safer. They also liked the plans for more places to cross the road. People shared ideas for the new green areas, such as where seats should go and how the space should look. They also asked questions about parking, how cars will get around, and how the works will stay safe.
People said the event was very helpful. They liked being able to talk to the teams directly and asked for more drop in sessions in the future.
Queensway footbridge removed
The Queensway footbridge has been successfully removed over the weekend, marking a major milestone for the Better Queensway project. The weekend closure allowed the demolition to happen safely, and all traffic diversions are now back in place.
This brings the area closer to safer roads, better connections, and greener public spaces for residents. Photos from the demolition have been added to show progress on site.
Watch a quick timelapse showing how the Better Queensway footbridge was safely taken down.
Residents can keep up to date with the project and monthly updates by emailing BetterQueensway@southend.gov.uk.
What is happening and what it means for you
Highway works began in December 2025. This aims to create a safer, greener, and more connected community. The project is focused on:
- upgrading infrastructure
- preparing the area for new homes and public spaces
What is changing
To get the area ready for future housing development, we are starting with important road and drainage improvements. These include:
- removing the underpass and bringing the road up to street level - this will make it easier to walk, cycle, and drive through the area
- making the roundabout smaller to help calm traffic and improve safety
- taking down the old footbridge and replacing it with safer, more accessible crossings
- installing drainage tanks to help manage rainwater and reduce the risk of flooding
These changes will make the area more attractive and ready for future development.
Better ways to get around
We are also improving how people move through Queensway:
- new cycle paths will connect Victoria Station in the north, to the seafront in the south - making it easier to travel by bike
- toucan crossings, which can be used by both pedestrians and cyclists, will be added to improve safety and accessibility
What is next
Once these works are complete, the area will be ready for new homes and public spaces. This is a key step in transforming Queensway into a vibrant, welcoming place for everyone.
For more details about the works and how they may affect you, please visit our frequently asked questions (FAQs) section.