From 2023 to 2026, we’ve worked with 16 schools across Southend to support our safe, clean and green ambition, creating greener, healthier spaces where children can learn, play and thrive.
Thanks to active engagement, we've successfully raised awareness of air quality with over 9,800 pupils and their families.
We recently visited Hamstel Junior School with previous Mayor of Southend, Cllr Nigel Folkard, where pupils proudly showcased some of the exciting improvements made to their school environment, including a new bike shelter with a green roof!
The Cllr said: "Seeing children learn and play in cleaner, greener environments is truly uplifting and shows what we can achieve when we work together as a community."
But that's just one part of a much bigger picture...
Across Southend schools, this project is delivering real, lasting change that supports our safe, clean and green priority:
1. Air purifiers and a living green wall
2. New bike and scooter storage to support active travel
3. Beautiful planting schemes, trees and greener school boundaries
4. Unique features like planted boats and outdoor enhancements
5. A city-wide "Cough! Cough! Engine Off!" anti-idling campaign to tackle pollution
A huge thank you to Defra, whose £250,000 grant made this work possible, and to all the schools, pupils, Southend Libraries, bus and taxi companies, GP Surgeries and health centres, Southend Hospital, South Essex College, C2C, Greater Anglia, The Echo, Essex Radio, the Chartered Institute of Environmental Health, and the LGA, who have helped make this project such a success and are helping us create a safer, cleaner and greener future for Southend.
For more information about air quality, pollution and more, visit the council's Protecting our environment and emergencies page.