From free parking to fireworks: 7 reasons to love Southend this festive season
Southend-on-Sea is set to sparkle this festive season with a fantastic line-up of activities and events for residents and visitors alike.
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Pride of Southend: City Day proposed for 7 March 2026 as the community stands up in droves
Southend-on-Sea City Council has reaffirmed its commitment to building a stronger sense of civic pride through the continued success of its Civic Pride Action Plan.
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Metrow Foods site - Council action and timeline
Southend-on-Sea City Council is continuing to monitor and respond to the situation at the Metrow Foods site following a fire at the private commercial premises on 15 August 2025.
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Donate a gift this Christmas with the Council's Toy Drive
The Council is excited to announce the launch of its annual Toy Drive for 2025.
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Southend-on-Sea City Council leads the way with four wins at 2025 Essex Housing Awards
The Council has been recognised with four major honours at this year’s county-wide Essex Housing Awards.
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Southend-on-Sea City Council approves Premier Inn expansion – a boost for seafront and local economy
Southend-on-Sea City Council has approved plans for a major extension to the Premier Inn hotel on Eastern Esplanade, bringing more jobs, investment and visitor accommodation to the city.
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110,000 handmade poppies to transform Southend Pier
Southend Pier has been overwhelmed by the extraordinary response to its Poppies on the Pier project, with over 110,000 knitted and crocheted poppies arriving from across the UK and around the world.
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Seafront parking charges reduced this winter to support Southend’s local businesses
Southend-on-Sea City Council is introducing its winter parking discount to support local shops, seafront businesses and residents during the quieter months, when demand for parking naturally falls.
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MPs support ‘most credible’ five-council proposal
MPs across the political spectrum are backing a proposal for five new unitary authorities in Greater Essex that keeps decision making close to residents.
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Countdown to cleaner streets and easier recycling - new recycling and waste service starts in two weeks
There's just two weeks to go before Southend-on-Sea's new recycling and waste service begins.
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UK's first high street 'sensory pod' opens in Southend
Southend-on-Sea City Council is pioneering inclusive public spaces with the UK's first high street sensory pod in The Victoria Centre.
