THE ORGANISERS behind a bid to bring back Southend Airshow are facing a “gargantuan” project but have the city’s support.
A group of business owners have resurrected the Southend Airshow name and aim to fundraise half-a-million pounds to bring the show back to the city for May 2024.
A previous attempt to revive the air show fell short in 2014, just two years after it was cancelled, after organisers of that attempt failed to reach their target of £220,000.
Councillor Matt Dent says he is firmly behind this latest bid to bring the show back but recognises it will be no easy task.
“It will take a gargantuan effort if they are to pull it off but speaking to the group I am seriously impressed with their enthusiasm and how grounded they seem,” he said.
“It is certainly something that has widespread, if not universal, enthusiasm within the city.
“We are seeing many larger events either returning or being set up, and obviously the return of the air show would be the jewel in the crown of that.”
Last year the city hosted its first ever Halloween parade – now set to become a regular fixture – will host the inaugural Southend Music Festival at Southend Airport next year.
The last Southend Airshow cost £300,000, with expensive policing costs also another factor to be considered.
The organisers of this latest bid say they have yet to hold discussions with the Essex Police but would be open to paying for private security if necessary.
“There's a long road ahead and a lot of work to be done but the team are determined to make this happen,” vice chair Alex Penn said.
Mr Dent added: “It’s an ambitious aim, but if we can show the advantages it will bring to the city, particularly the economy and our seafront traders, then I am sure that many of them will be prepared to support it.”
Paul Thompson, owner of Pebbles One Café and the Marine Parade Spar, said: “It’s certainly something that I would love to see happen, but maybe it could be better held later in the year, such as a weekend in September to make sure it isn’t a wash out like it was every other year in the past.”
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