Future ambitions
Project: Forum 2 alternative options
The pandemic halted plans to develop Forum 2 in Elmer Square, opposite the Forum building. However there is still a desire to make sure the opportunity for skills and culture to play a leading part in the Town Centre’s regeneration.
Alternative options are now being investigated, including
- learning space with high end digital equipment
- creative space
- production space
- and gallery space
Focal Point Gallery, Southend’s contemporary arts national portfolio organisation is leading on an options appraisal programme that will deliver its findings in the summer of 2021.
Project: Artist studios
We already have a firm foundation of creative sector specialists and thriving cultural network in Southend-on-Sea. We want to provide space for creatives from other areas to grow from their current base and relocate.
We want to develop artists’ studios and digital studios close to the vicinity of the High Street, due to the high footfall, including the Victoria Shopping Centre.
Project: Seafront illuminations
Millions of visitors come to Southend’s famous central seafront every year.
As part of ‘Destination Southend’, the business community and council want to expand the season and create additional value for the economy.
One of the ideas being explored is to develop new seafront illuminations across Pier Hill and extending west into the Cliff Gardens. An LED lighting scheme and illumination festival are also being discussed.