A new conservation group has been launched on the back of fears about the loss of important heritage sites throughout Southend.

The Leigh, Milton, Shoebury and Southend societies have joined forces to promote the preservation of historic buildings and environmental sites in their areas.

Carole Mulroney, a committee member for the Leigh Society, said she hoped the new Southend Conservation Forum could help raise awareness in the town.

She added: "All four societies share concerns about the way the borough is going.

"There are a lack of officers who deal specifically with conservation and a lack of education about what conservation and planning is."

The forum is concerned too little attention is being paid to local heritage in the rush to fill housing, employment and other demands.

"Its members aim to improve public education about planning and conservation and to influence planning policy.

Peter Dolby, chairman of Leigh Town Council, said the council was willing to be approached by the forum on conservation issues.

He added: "The council applaud the initiative of the four societies and support in principle the aims and initiatives of the Southend Conservation Forum."