Bid to make Southend a city officially launched

Southend West MP Sir David Amess - a fierce champion for Southend’s city status bid - helped to formally spearhead the town’s campaign.

Becoming the “City of Southend” would “turbo boost” the economy, and increase the profile of all it has to offer, the campaign says.

A bell-ringing ceremony outside the Beecroft Gallery launched the bid.

READ MORE:

• Family pays tribute to 'loving dad' after man died following head injury
• Man found guilty in connection with death of dad after attack outside bar

Sir David said:“City status would provide a long overdue recognition of all Southend has to offer. If it is a fair competition, then Southend will become a city and we deserve it.

“Southend certainly is special and I truly hope that its brilliance is recognised in the form of city status next year.”

Southend’s bid will show off the unique nature of the town, and it must be submitted by December, with the winners will be announced next year.

Carole Mulroney, councillor in charge of the environment, culture, tourism, and planning, added: “Despite the nay sayers, this is a great opportunity for the whole borough to go full tilt in promoting ourselves as what we are - a major destination and cultural centre within Essex that deserves recognition of its many facets, heritage, Royal connections, and great opportunities for the future.”

A new website is up and running, allowing residents to share their views on what makes Southend special.

It can be found here https://yoursay.southend.gov.uk/southend-on-sea-city-status.