Outlook – Spring 2016

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YOUR OFFICIAL SOUTHEND-ON-SEA BOROUGH COUNCIL MAGAZINE www.southend.gov.uk

Win tubs of

ISSUE 35 Spring 2016

MORE RESIDENTS MAKE THE SWITCH

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PAGE 11

Bank holiday waste collection dates PAGE 12

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Looking at new ways of effective communication

CONTENTS Spring 2016 Pledge to protect frontline service despite cuts . . . . . . . 5

By Councillor RON WOODLEY Leader of the Council

Exciting lagoon development to transform seafront . . 7 Even more people log on to My Southend website . . . . 8 Protecting our frontline services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

I am sorry to say that this will be the last Leader’s column for Outlook magazine.

I have spoken extensively about the severe budget challenges that we face and how much more difficult it gets every year just to balance the books.

Unfortunately, whilst we managed to keep Outlook going in recent years by reducing the number of issues and distribution, and increasing the advertising sold, for the 2016/17 budget the decision has been taken to stop the magazine completely.

When we are being forced to make so many savings – changes to social care for example – we felt that we could no longer justify producing a Council magazine.You can read more about our budget for 2016/17 on pages five and nine.

We know that the magazine is well read and popular amongst many residents and we also know how important it is to keep you informed about events, major projects and waste collection changes for example.

We therefore need to adapt how we communicate with you accordingly, and use our online channels better.

If you have a Facebook account then I would urge you to ‘like’ our ‘SouthendBCOfficial’ page which is updated daily with vital Council news, as is our Twitter account @SouthendBC, and our website www.southend.gov.uk. Please share our stories, have a conversation with us, and help us to build a new online community.

But we also understand that not all of you have access to the internet and a computer, and so we are also looking at how we use traditional advertising, the local media and community newsletters to get our message across to you.

Keep an eye out for advertising wraps on the local free-sheets that come through your door for example and if you have any ideas on how we can get our message across then please get in touch.

Thank you so much for reading.

For News Updates follow us on:

Twitter @southendbc

Facebook southendbcofficial

Expert advice to achieve a healthier lifestyle . . . . 10.

Website www.southend.gov.uk

Community Co-ordinator for Queensway . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Enhanced waste services set to be launched . . . 12/13 More destinations from London Southend Airport . . . 14 Initiatives encourage residents to get active . . . . . . . . 15 Boost for prestigious National Jazz Archive . . . . . . . . . 17 Expert advice for common illnesses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 The tide is turning against beach litter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 What’s on Sea . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20/21 Know your Councillors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22/23 Multi-million investment at world-famous pier . . . . . . . 24

for Southend Outlook is printed on recycled paper.When you have finished with this publication please help the environment by passing it on to a friend or recycling it.

Outlook is written, designed and produced by Smith Davis Press in partnership with Southend-on-Sea Borough Council. The information contained in this publication has been accepted from the contributors in good faith, and whilst every effort has been made to ensure accuracy at the time of going to press, Southend-on-Sea Borough Council cannot accept responsibility for any errors,misrepresentations or subsequent changes.Whilst all possible care is taken in the preparation of this publication, no responsibility for loss occasioned by any person acting as a result of the material contained herein can be accepted by Southend-on-Sea Borough Council,the authors or the publisher.Southend-on-Sea Borough Council does not endorse any of the products or services advertised within this publication.Printed by PCP. Further information about the Council,its Councillors and its services can be found on our website www.southend.gov.uk or by emailing council@southend.gov.uk or by calling 01702 215000.You can also access this information through your local library.

Say it – do it online: www.southend.gov.uk

SPRING 2016 Outlook

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Wedding Ceremonies & Special occasions SOUTHEND VENUES OFFERS SUPPORT TO COUPLES LOOKING TO FIND THE PERFECT VENUE FOR THEIR SPECIAL DAY. Have you considered one of Southend-on-Sea’s fantastic museums which are now available exclusively for your wedding day?

What is your name?

Prittlewell Priory (110 capacity) How old are you?

Almost 900 years old What do you like most?

When beautiful people arrive for their perfect weddings in the grand Refectory Hall and photos in my secret walled garden.

What is your name?

Southchurch Hall (40 capacity) How old are you?

Erm...14th Century, I think!

What is your best asset?

My impressive surrounding moat within the picturesque Duck Pond Park… we even have terrapins!

We can also advise on other venues:

Civic Centre Registration The Mayors Residence – Office & Jubilee Room Porters Civic House

The Royal Pavilion – Southend Pier

Bespoke Packages are available across multiple locations for Ceremonies, Receptions and Evening Functions.

Access to approved suppliers including floral arrangements, catering and entertainment providers.

CONTACT US TODAY FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, ARRANGE A VIEWING OR TO CONFIRM THE DATE FOR YOUR SPECIAL DAY tel: 01702 212032 • email: venuesandevents@southend.gov.uk • web: www.southend.gov.uk/southendvenues @southendvenues

facebook.com/southendvenues

southendvenues

southendvenues

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Budget will balance books and

protect frontline services A

budget has been unveiled for the next 12 months which seeks to protect and maintain frontline services that people rely on – despite worse than anticipated central Government cuts.

Departmental savings of £10.467 million need to be found

by Southend-on-Sea Borough Council for the next financial year – following on from £10.425 million in 2015/16.

It follows news that the main grant the Council receives from central Government will decrease by £8.43 million (28 per cent) in 2016/17.

It means that Council Tax will also rise by 1.99 per cent as the authority looks to generate extra funds to balance its books. The Council will also invoke a two per cent social care precept, announced by the Government, which will raise an extra £1.3 million to be spent in this vital area.

Along with the savings, a number of proposed new projects have been announced as part of the Council’s Capital Programme, which is separate to the General Fund Revenue Budget (see table below).

Council Leader Ron Woodley said: “I have no choice but to announce some incredibly difficult decisions that deliver the significant savings required so we can balance our books.

“We will continue to keep the streets clean, support businesses, ensure Southend-on-Sea remains an attractive and popular place to live,

visit and do business and, most importantly, look after and protect our most vulnerable people.

“I accept it will not be popular but I must protect the financial stability of the Council and I therefore feel I have no choice but to propose to raise Council Tax by 1.99 per cent and also accept the two per cent social care precept.

“To not raise council tax and take the social care precept would be irresponsible and lead to future budget issues. In total the rise is £47 a year for a Band D household which could be more than covered by joining Southend Energy, which is saving residents £280 a year on average.”

Savings and money-generating initiatives are being brought in across the four Council Departments – People, Place, Corporate Services and Public Health. These include: ● Car park charges will be frozen across the Borough, but will increase in the central seafront area between April and October – generating £200,000.

IMPROVING OUR ROADS: important investment to continue.

● The re-tendered leisure management contract will save £300,000 a year and the Council’s innovative approach to LED street lighting will also save £440,000. ● More rental income from council assets will raise £150,000, while resident magazine Outlook will stop being issued saving £50,000. ● Public Health savings will be achieved by re-negotiating drug and alcohol commissioned services.

Councillor Woodley added: “Despite the fiscal situation we face, this budget still delivers the savings required due to Government cuts, invests in the right areas to ensure that we deal

with an ageing population, protects our most vulnerable members of our community and continues to demonstrate that Southend is ambitious and still remains open for business.”

CAPITAL INVESTMENTS INCLUDE: ● £10.9m to redevelop Civic Centre East car park with up to 52 new homes, and reconstruction of former library car park in Victoria Avenue, potentially creating up to 245 more spaces in that area. ● £8m for additional secondary school places, in addition to £10m already identified. ● £8m to continue the completion of the Decent Homes programme in 2019/20. ● £4m for highways and footway improvements to 2019/20. ● £1.98m for non-structural Pier works and improvements to decking, lamp columns, electrics, shelters and toilets.

TOP OF THE CLASS: Investment in secondary school places is a priority.

SPRING 2016 Outlook

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COUNCIL HOTLINE Out of Hours emergencies – 01702 215000 Housing Benefits, Council Tax Reduction and Council Tax – 01702 215001 Housing Advice – 01702 215002 Parking, Highways and Transport – 01702 215003 Planning, Development and Building Control – 01702 215004 Environmental Health, Trading Standards and Licensing – 01702 215005

Leigh-on-Sea residents Simon Putt and his wife Brenda are saving £960 a year after switching to Southend Energy.

Waste, Fly Tipping, Fly Posting and Graffiti – 01702 215006 Children’s Services including Education – 01702 215007 Adult Social Services – 01702 215008 Registration Services (Births, Deaths and Marriages) – 01702 215009 Electoral Registration and Councillor Enquiries – 01702 215010 Leisure, Culture and Tourism – 01702 215011

EMERGENCY CONTACT NUMBERS DIAL 111 IF you feel unwell, call 111 and a team of fully trained advisers and experienced nurses can assess your condition and direct you to the local service that can help you best, when you need it.

If it is an emergency, an ambulance will be despatched immediately without the need for any further assessment, just as quickly as if you had dialled 999.

DIAL 101 YOU should call 101 to report crime and other concerns that do not require an emergency response.

DIAL 999 YOU should always call 999 when it is an emergency, such as when a crime is in progress, someone suspected of a crime is nearby, when there is danger to life or when violence is being used or threatened.

6 Outlook SPRING 2016

Over 3,000 residents

make the switch S

WITCHING to Southend Energy has helped more than 3,100 people save around £869,000 on their bills in the few months since the pioneering energy supply scheme launched.

A partnership between OVO Energy and Southend-on-Sea Borough Council aims to offer bespoke tariffs and fair energy deals with low standing charges and no exit fees. People living within the Borough can access the service, which includes a pre-payment offer with one of the cheapest pre-payment energy tariffs in the country.

After comparing Southend Energy prices with his previous provider and realising that he could make huge savings, Simon Putt from Leigh-on-Sea

decided to switch. He said: “The fixed-price deal with my previous provider had finished so I got a quote from Southend Energy and was surprised that I’d be able to save £960 per year. This is more than I ever thought I’d be able to save, so it’s definitely been worthwhile.

“It couldn’t have been simpler to get a quote and sign up, the process literally took a couple of minutes and they provide an online progress chart so that it’s easy to see what stage you’re at in the transfer process.

“I checked all the other energy providers to make sure I was getting the best deal and Southend Energy came out on top, with the added bonus that if I decided to end my agreement there were no penalties – the whole experience has been fantastic.”

Chance to have a say on development plans LOCAL residents have been consulted on exciting plans to build a state-of-the-art 10 screen cinema as part of a leisure scheme at the Seaway Car Park on Lucy Road.

The development – which would be a short distance from the seafront – is set to include a new multi-storey car park that will increase the amount of parking on-site, together with 12 new restaurants and cafes.

The Turnstone Estates proposals, which could create approximately 450 new jobs, also include a new public square,

opening up views of the historic St John the Baptist Church.

In addition to the cinema and restaurants, the proposals include a gym, rock climbing wall and a hotel. A new coach drop-off and collection point is also planned on Lucy Road, and coach parking will be retained on-site.

Tim Deacon, Development Director at Turnstone Estates said:“We are working hard to ensure that Southend-on-Sea residents and visitors have the opportunity to provide feedback about the plans and a

consultation event was held in December where members of the project team answered questions from over 300 people who attended.

“We are delighted that much of the feedback received was supportive, and that many local people thought that the scheme would be positive.”

The proposals can still be viewed at seawayleisure.co.uk and people can receive updates on twitter@SeawayLeisure It is anticipated that a planning application will be submitted by the spring.

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A computer generated image showing how the new seafront lagoon will look.

New lagoon is set to TRANSFORM SEAFRONT A

N exciting project is underway to create a new lagoon which will transform the seafront.

The facility to the west of the Pier will ensure water enjoyment for residents and visitors even when the tide is out.

At around the size of a football pitch the lagoon, together with new toilets and showers at Three Shells Beach, will boost the tourist offer and provide first-class new facilities for the area.

During the project – work on which starts this spring – giant rocks and boulders will be brought in to enhance the landscape. Southend-on-Sea Borough Council is working in partnership to deliver the

improvements with major seafront business Stockvale, owners of Adventure Island.

Scott Dolling, the Council’s Head of Economy, Regeneration and Tourism, said: “Providing permanent water where the tide goes out such a long way will help keep visitors staying longer and encourage people to extend their visits.

“This will help businesses on the seafront and nearby. The funding for the lagoon was won because the change would bring more job creation – it’s all good news for our economy.”

There will be some disruption on the beach during this period, however, works should be completed before the start of the summer holidays.

Scott Dolling, the Council’s Head of Economy, Regeneration and Tourism, at the location on Three Shells Beach where the lagoon development is being created.

Apply for it – do it online: www.southend.gov.uk

Vital people are registered to cast vote WITH just a few weeks to go until the Borough and Police and Crime Commissioner elections, the Council is urging all local residents to make sure that they are registered to vote.

Every individual is now responsible for ensuring they are on the electoral register, rather than it still being the responsibility of the “head of household”.

Registering is simple and can be done at gov.uk/register-to-vote.

The deadline to register to vote in the May 2016 Police and Crime Commissioner and Borough elections is 18 April.

Southend-on-Sea Borough Council Chief Executive Rob Tinlin said: “As we approach the May 2016 elections it is vital that as many people as possible are registered to vote so that they can have their say on issues that affect their lives.

“It is quick and easy to register online and only takes a few minutes. The system changed in 2014 and if you are in any doubt as to whether you are registered, please call the team on 01702 215010.”

Being registered means that you can vote in relevant elections and it could also help with your credit rating.

SPRING 2016 Outlook

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Snappers urged to share their photographs AN appeal is going out to Southend-on -Sea’s gifted amateur photographers to share their work with the wider public.

In a new initiative called “Southend Snappers” the Council is asking people to send in their most eye-catching images of Southend’s buildings and landscapes.

Photos will be featured on the Council’s Flickr site and photographers’ names will be credited if the Council use them in any way.

■ Please send any photos to media@ southend.gov.uk

More foster carers need to be recruited AT least 15 new foster carers are needed in Southend-onSea this year with the Borough Council particularly hoping to attract people to care for older children, teenagers and sibling groups.

Council Fostering Recruitment Officer Dawn Webb said:“We currently have 96 foster carers registered with the Council but the majority are already looking after children so we need to recruit more to increase that pool.

“Being a foster carer is challenging but rewarding.

You need a spare room in your home as well as space and time for a child and to work with the Local Authority.

“We pride ourselves on offering excellent training and support for our foster carers.”

There is no upper age limit for prospective foster parents who come from all walks of life.

Foster carers may be married, single, in a stable long-term relationship, divorced, widowed, in employment or unemployed.

To find out more, call 01702 212938, email fostering@southend.gov.uk or visit southend.gov.uk

8 Outlook SPRING 2016

Over 5,000 log on to

My Southend site A

range of interactive Council forms can now be completed online with the new My Southend facility, making the process quicker and easier for residents.

More than 5,000 people are already logging on to manage their Council transactions, and they can now access forms for everything from housing benefits to council tax and relocations.

The new forms have replaced outdated online versions that were previously in use, and will only be accessible via a MySouthend Southend-on-Sea account. resident Martin Residents can also view Shadbolt pays his details for their council council tax online using tax, housing benefits, the My Southend council tax benefits or facility at The business rates online – Forum. speeding up the process of Centre offering free viewing bills and notifications computer training, as they no longer have to wait for financial advice and support with paper copies. housing and applications.

To register, simply go to Meanwhile, other Council-related southend.gov.uk/MySouthend services can still be accessed online, while those without internet access so residents are not restricted by can go online at local libraries. office opening times.

You can also access My Everything from ordering a Southend at The Hub – a service replacement food caddy to making located in Victoria Shopping a payment or report can be done

at southend.gov.uk/doitonline, making things quicker and simpler for all.

Southend-on-Sea Borough Council Customer Services Manager Ellen Butler said: “We’re really trying to make things simpler for residents by allowing more and more to be done online – they can easily access a range of services in just a couple of clicks.”

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Putting people first in face of spending cuts F

RONTLINE services should remain largely unaffected as the Council is forced to cut £5.3 million from its Department for People budget this year.

Redesigns and new ways of working are being introduced to offset spending reductions across the department’s £137 million budget which pays for adult, children, housing and other services but excludes schools.

A major review of learning disability and services for older people will save £3 million as the focus in future is on helping people stay independent and in their own homes longer.

Service provision at the Borough's nine children’s centres will stay the same though £100,000 will be saved as options are explored to establish a single

leadership and management structure for all of them. Non replacement of staff, voluntary redundancy, re-negotiation of existing contracts and re-tendering for other services is set to save more money across the department.

Simon Leftley, corporate director for people, says: “Although councillors have agreed to take the two per cent social care precept which raises £1.3m, our social care pressures including dealing with an ageing population means that we have to find an extra £1m anyway.

“On top of that we have had to find another £1m to replace an adult social care grant that has also ceased.

“That is why it is so important we transform the way we deliver adult social care in the Borough, so that we can continue to protect our most vulnerable members of the community.”

BEST OF STARTS: early years services are being maintained like those at the Trinity Family Centre, Westcliffon-Sea.

Department for People Budget 2016/17

PROMOTING INDEPENDENCE: the Council is supporting services which help older people stay in their own homes longer.

Two new pilot schemes help transform health and social care TWO adult social care pilot schemes have been launched in Southend-on-Sea as part of a project to transform the whole social and healthcare system.

Discharge to Assess is supporting timely and appropriate hospital discharges by providing residential care placements of up to 14 days for six people at a time. They will receive intensive reablement therapy to give them the best opportunity, where possible, of returning home and living independently.

The Overnight Support project provides adults with waking-night care from 10pm to 7am for up to five days. The idea is to reduce the need for interim residential placements which can increase dependency and minimise their chances of returning home.

Both projects will be piloted for six months before thorough evaluation takes place to measure the impact across health and social care.

Sarah Baker, the Council's Service

Apply for it – do it online: www.southend.gov.uk

Transformation Programme Manager, said: “Both of these schemes will support adults to remain as independent as possible and limit long-term dependency on both health and social care.

“As we move forward, our vision is for social workers, alongside their health colleagues, to have a strong understanding of their local community and engage wholly with Southend residents to maximise independence, inclusion and reduce marginalisation.”

SPRING 2016 Outlook

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A few simple steps can help people achieve a healthier lifestyle – and it could not be easier to get advice.

Southend-on-Sea Borough Council is piloting a one stop shop number for its health and wellbeing support.

By phoning a single number – 01702 461377 – people can access a wide range of healthy lifestyle services which are commissioned by the Council – for example, weight management, stop smoking support, physical activity and

healthy eating. They are given the option of one-to-one coaching with a health trainer and following a face-to-face or telephone conversation, they are signposted or referred to the right service. Countless Southend residents have already been referred by GPs or health professionals and they are enjoying the benefits of a changed lifestyle including gym visits and slimming club membership.

Here, Outlook focuses on two of these success stories.

Get Healthy Hub is lifeline for Bob

A healthy diet and exercise has been the key to Bob Collins shedding weight and getting fit.

B

OB Collins wants to stay healthy so he can play with his grandchildren into his old age – and he is praising Southend-on-Sea Borough Council for helping him to do so.

The retired builder, 62, was shocked when a health check at his local GP surgery revealed that his Body Mass Index was “through the roof ”. His 19 and a half stone weight was exacerbating a chronic breathing problem and he realised he needed to take some action.

On the advice of the surgery Bob had an informal meeting in The Forum with a one-to-one coach from the Council’s Get Healthy Hub and he jumped at the chance to join the exercise referral and weight management programme.

He was offered 12 weeks of subsidised sessions at Fusion gym and 12 weeks of public

health-funded sessions at Slimming World.

“It was fantastic to be given this opportunity,” said Bob. “Overeating is a vicious circle and I needed a push to change my lifestyle. I found the discussion groups at Slimming World very useful and I have also benefited at the gym from the advice of a personal trainer for whom I paid.”

Bob has kept up his gym sessions beyond the

initial 12 weeks, easing himself into physical activity using the recumbent exercise bikes and a cross trainer.

“The help from the Council has been a lifeline to me,” he added.

“I have four grandchildren, all girls aged nine, seven, six and two, and I want them to know I will be around to play with them for many years to come.”

Healthy living advice came exactly at right time

Nathalie Farine works out at the Locker Room gym at Southend Central railway station.

10 Outlook SPRING 2016

FOR Nathalie Farine, healthy living advice from Southend-on-Sea Borough Council came at “exactly the right time”.

Her weight had spiralled to 18 stones and a health check at her local surgery prompted her to seek advice.

Encouraged by the primary care nurse to contact the Council’s Get Healthy Hub, Nathalie had a one-to-one meeting in The Forum.

She acted on the suggestion to enrol at the Locker Room gym in Southend for 12 weeks and made twice-a-week visits.

“I enjoyed the treadmill, weight lifting and step aerobics,” she said.

“It was the first time in my life I had done anything like this. My personal trainer was

really impressed with my progress.”

Mum-of-five Nathalie, 46, who is a cleaner and carer who came to the UK from Mauritius 10 years ago, also acted on the health team’s advice to eat less carbohydrates and more fruit and vegetables. She said: “Now I eat grilled meat instead of fried chicken. My previous diet included a lot of rice and pasta.

“My weight has dropped to 17 stones 3 lbs and I feel so much better thanks to the lifestyle advice I have received – the hints came at exactly the right time.”

Natalie finds she sleeps better and her work has benefited and has passed the healthy hints on to other members of her family.

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Busy building great spirit in

Community Co-ordinator Will Carter, right, talks with resident Alex Russell about plans for the flats at Queensway.

COMMUNITY A

S work continues on the ambitious project to regenerate Queensway estate, one man is busy building community spirit around the estate.

Community Co-ordinator Will Carter works for Southend Vineyard Church in a job partly funded by Southend-on-Sea Borough Council – he runs community events and is the link between the Better Queensway project team and local people.

Will, who is based at The Storehouse Community Centre in Coleman Street, said: “The post is a completely new venture, which is great because I can make the role my own.

“The Storehouse, the Council and South Essex Homes are working together to organise events and positive activities for the community. The role is about the community having a voice and I will be there to allow this to grow.

“I am also acting as a link between residents and the Council and getting involved in all sorts of

work, from organising fun day events for the whole community to engage in.

“These events and meetings are community led and decided upon by those who should be making their own decisions – the Queensway estate community.

“I am also encouraging as many residents as possible to engage with the project team and ensure they have a say as the project moves forward. I really want people to take ownership for their community, be proud of where they live and strive for a cohesive and linked-in place to be.”

Will has so far helped to organise two resident update sessions, the Coleman Street Carnival, two leaseholder events and a ‘Day in the Life’ session with local residents, where the project team spent time with residents to find out how a regenerated Queensway could help to improve their quality of life.

The Better Queensway project is the biggest regeneration scheme that the Council has undertaken in a generation and could see over 1,000 new homes built, traffic

improvements and better connections with the town centre.

Work to firm up financial plans and determine the future of the tower blocks is ongoing with

further resident update events scheduled for March and June.

● For more information on the project, please visit southend. gov.uk/betterqueensway

COMPETITION

WIN tubs of delicious award-winning ice cream A huge selection of Rossi ice cream tubs as well as a branded t-shirt and scarf are up for grabs in our latest competition.

The winner will receive three boxes each containing 12 spoon-in-lid tubs and will be able to choose one flavour per box out of vanilla, lemon ice, chocolate, strawberry, honeycomb, mint chocolate chip and blue bubblegum.

Started by the Rossi family in 1932, Rossi Ice Cream has become an institution in Southend-on-Sea and beyond, and has won awards in the National Ice Cream Competitions every year since the early 60’s.

To be in with a chance of winning, answer this question: what year did Rossi Ice Cream start?

a) 1982; b) 1932; c) 1803 Send your answers on a postcard, with your name, address and telephone number, to: Rossi Competition, Information and Communications, Southend-on-Sea Borough Council, Victoria Avenue, Southend-on-Sea, SS2 6ER, or you can email outlook@ southend. gov.uk.

The closing date for entries is 30 April.

Rossi Ice Cream Director

Pay it – do it online: www.southend.gov.uk

Colin Gray said:“We are delighted to offer a prize for this competition. Rossi Ice Cream is not only well known in Southend for being available from ice cream vans

and parlours but it is also sold in many local retailers around the town. We look forward to presenting the prize winner with their ice cream tubs, branded t-shirt and scarf.”

SPRING 2016 Outlook

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Outlook p12&13

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Driver Andy McPhee with one of the new recycling vehicles.

E

NHANCED recycling and waste services are being launched across Southend between May and July with all collections condensed into a four-day week.

Leigh-on-Sea resident Niqui Denkmayer with one of the new blue recycling boxes specifically for paper and card.

New kerbside rounds are being introduced by the Council’s contractor Veolia between Tuesday and Fridays when all household recycling and waste will be picked up.

The collection day for some residents will change but all those affected will be informed of any change to their schedule in advance.

A new blue box collection is also being launched and residents will be asked to separate paper and cardboard from the rest of their recyclable waste. Residents will receive instructions with their new boxes during a phased delivery between May and July.

Arrangements are being made for residents who live in blocks of flats to recycle their paper and card via blue bags and communal bins.

New split-body vehicles are being phased in during the launch so blue box paper and pink bag recycling collections can be carried out at the same time. Other split bodied vehicles will be used to collect food waste in one side and normal black bag waste in the other.

Easter,Early Early May May and and Spring Spring Bank Bank Holiday Holiday Easter,

Collection Dates

Normal collection day

✓ Yes please

✓ Yes please

✓ Newspapers ✓ Magazines ✓ Cardboard ✓ Mixed paper

✓ Cans ✓ Plastic food

✓ Cartons – e.g.

and jars

packaging

✓ Plastic bottles ✓ Glass bottles

and card

Tetra Pak

■ For more information on the new collection and recycling services or if you require assistance with your collection visit southend.gov.uk/recycling

The Council’s Waste Service Manager Imran Kazalbash said: “The new, efficient service being introduced by our contractor Veolia means that we won't have to change collection days every time there is a Bank Holiday. Indeed, other than Christmas and Easter, your collection day will remain the same throughout the year.”

Revised collection day

Days late

Friday 25th March

Saturday 26th March

1 day late

Monday 28th March

Tuesday 29th March

1 day late

Tuesday 29th March

Wednesday 30th March

1 day late

Wednesday 30th March

Thursday 31st March

1 day late

Thursday 31st March

Friday 1st April

1 day late

Friday1st April

Saturday 2nd April

1 day late

Monday 2nd May

Tuesday 3rd May

1 day late

Tuesday 3rd May

Wednesday 4th May

1 day late

Wednesday 4th May

Thursday 5th May

1 day late

Thursday 5th May

Friday 6th May

1 day late

Friday 6th May

Saturday 7th May

1 day late

Easter Bank Holiday

Early May Bank Holiday

For more information call 01702 215006 or visit www.southend.gov.uk/recycling 12 Outlook SPRING 2016

Save time – do it online: www.southend.gov.uk

Resident Julian Gregg recycles ceramics at the Stock Road Household Waste Recycling Centre.

Centres will be improved VISITORS will notice exciting changes to both Household Waste Recycling Centres in Southend-on-Sea. Improvements on site include: ● Increased on-site parking. ● Increased recycling provision. ● Re-vamped site signage and line marking. ● Reduced waiting times.

Additionally a new comprehensive re-use scheme in partnership with a local charity will be provided.

This will include a high quality, professional shop on the Stock Road site to sell items back to the community.

DID YOU KNOW? For every one per cent increase in our recycling rate, we save £100,000 in disposal costs.

SPRING 2016 Outlook

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Driver Andy McPhee with one of the new recycling vehicles.

E

NHANCED recycling and waste services are being launched across Southend between May and July with all collections condensed into a four-day week.

Leigh-on-Sea resident Niqui Denkmayer with one of the new blue recycling boxes specifically for paper and card.

New kerbside rounds are being introduced by the Council’s contractor Veolia between Tuesday and Fridays when all household recycling and waste will be picked up.

The collection day for some residents will change but all those affected will be informed of any change to their schedule in advance.

A new blue box collection is also being launched and residents will be asked to separate paper and cardboard from the rest of their recyclable waste. Residents will receive instructions with their new boxes during a phased delivery between May and July.

Arrangements are being made for residents who live in blocks of flats to recycle their paper and card via blue bags and communal bins.

New split-body vehicles are being phased in during the launch so blue box paper and pink bag recycling collections can be carried out at the same time. Other split bodied vehicles will be used to collect food waste in one side and normal black bag waste in the other.

Easter,Early Early May May and and Spring Spring Bank Bank Holiday Holiday Easter,

Collection Dates

Normal collection day

✓ Yes please

✓ Yes please

✓ Newspapers ✓ Magazines ✓ Cardboard ✓ Mixed paper

✓ Cans ✓ Plastic food

✓ Cartons – e.g.

and jars

packaging

✓ Plastic bottles ✓ Glass bottles

and card

Tetra Pak

■ For more information on the new collection and recycling services or if you require assistance with your collection visit southend.gov.uk/recycling

The Council’s Waste Service Manager Imran Kazalbash said: “The new, efficient service being introduced by our contractor Veolia means that we won't have to change collection days every time there is a Bank Holiday. Indeed, other than Christmas and Easter, your collection day will remain the same throughout the year.”

Revised collection day

Days late

Friday 25th March

Saturday 26th March

1 day late

Monday 28th March

Tuesday 29th March

1 day late

Tuesday 29th March

Wednesday 30th March

1 day late

Wednesday 30th March

Thursday 31st March

1 day late

Thursday 31st March

Friday 1st April

1 day late

Friday1st April

Saturday 2nd April

1 day late

Monday 2nd May

Tuesday 3rd May

1 day late

Tuesday 3rd May

Wednesday 4th May

1 day late

Wednesday 4th May

Thursday 5th May

1 day late

Thursday 5th May

Friday 6th May

1 day late

Friday 6th May

Saturday 7th May

1 day late

Easter Bank Holiday

Early May Bank Holiday

For more information call 01702 215006 or visit www.southend.gov.uk/recycling 12 Outlook SPRING 2016

Save time – do it online: www.southend.gov.uk

Resident Julian Gregg recycles ceramics at the Stock Road Household Waste Recycling Centre.

Centres will be improved VISITORS will notice exciting changes to both Household Waste Recycling Centres in Southend-on-Sea. Improvements on site include: ● Increased on-site parking. ● Increased recycling provision. ● Re-vamped site signage and line marking. ● Reduced waiting times.

Additionally a new comprehensive re-use scheme in partnership with a local charity will be provided.

This will include a high quality, professional shop on the Stock Road site to sell items back to the community.

DID YOU KNOW? For every one per cent increase in our recycling rate, we save £100,000 in disposal costs.

SPRING 2016 Outlook

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Exciting opportunities emerge to forge links with Dutch city A number of exciting opportunities for forging links with Groningen in North Holland have emerged from meetings between tourism chiefs from both locations.

The Dutch city– now linked to Southend-on-Sea through daily flights out of London Southend Airport – shares a number of similarities with its English counterpart which make it a natural “informal twin”.

Cultural links are strong since both

places have film festivals and a jazz culture.

Businesses from the population centres – both of which have around 200,000 residents – will be able to take advantage of research and development opportunities at the universities.

Commercial enterprises from Groningen which are looking to enter the UK market may well be interested in taking space at the Airport Business Park which is in the pipeline.

“We have been working with Groningen

for about a year to develop a range of civic, business and cultural links,” said Scott Dolling, Southend-on-Sea Borough Council Head of Economy, Regeneration and Tourism.

“We hosted two meetings through the Tourism Partnership, with the visitors staying in local hotels, and we discussed a wide range of ideas for forging a link between the two destinations.”

■ For more details about Groningen visit the website toerisme.groningen.nl/en/

Even more destinations

An atmospheric photograph of an easyJet plane taking off at the award-winning London Southend Airport.

New easyJet flights to Paris to operate four times a week

M

ORE destinations have been added at award-winning London Southend Airport – ideal for both business passengers and tourists.

The latest is through airline easyJet, which has launched a new route to Paris that will operate four times per week throughout the year.

The service will fly directly into Charles de Gaulle airport in the capital and is expected to transport 50,000 passengers between the destinations each year.

London Southend, which has been voted

14 Outlook SPRING 2016

Which? magazine’s “Best Airport in Britain” for three years running, also has departures each week to many European destinations.

They include Amsterdam, Barcelona, Geneva, Gronigen, Ibiza, Malaga, Menorca, Majorca, Tenerife and Venice.

More than £120 million has been invested in the airport by owner Stobart Group since it was acquired in 2008. New facilities include a station adjacent to the terminal on the London Liverpool Street Line and a 4-star Holiday Inn. Stobart Aviation Chief Executive Glyn Jones said: “It is great news that easyJet is

introducing a new service to and from London Southend. After launching Lyon and Lanzarote, this is an exciting development that will provide even greater choice for passengers flying from the airport.”

Meanwhile, around 20 per cent of the airport’s annual electricity requirement is now being generated by a brand new onsite solar farm.

The £2 million facility, consisting of 9,500 individual solar panels, has now started supplying electricity to the airport, with additional capability to export limited power to the national grid.

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Southend-on-Sea resident Francis Gordon, aged 18, practises at the Southend Leisure and Tennis Centre.

Plenty of sport is on offer for disabled people SPORTS and activities for people with disabilities are available across the Borough as part of Active Southend, and residents of all ages and abilities are welcomed.

A range of free judo classes for blind or visually impaired people are held each week

by Southend Judo Club, while wheelchair tennis sessions take place every Thursday for ten to 18-year-olds at Southend Leisure and Tennis Centre.

Those who are keen to try a bit of everything can head to the centre at Garon Park, Eastern Avenue, on Monday evenings for the multi-sports club, where they can enjoy a range of activities while meeting new people.

Meanwhile, free swimming lessons for children with physical disabilities or sensory impairments are held at locations across Southend, providing small group and one-to-one sessions. ● For more information on all sports and activities offered, visit activesouthend.com or call 01702 215612. For judo call 07961 184740, for swimming 07764 495713 and for tennis – 01702 613000.

Benefits of being

ACTIVE Working out on the rowing machines at the Leisure and Tennis Centre are, front to back, Elaine Elliott, Christine Sillanpaa and Maureen Scott.

E

VERYTHING from yoga to pop-up tennis and walking football is on offer as part of Active Southend’s drive to encourage residents to be fit and active.

Active Women hosts female-only sessions in pilates, boot camp, dance fit, yoga and aerobic toning, while there is also chance to take up team sports such as netball or football.

For women who are keen to start running in a friendly environment, the six-week Running Sisters course takes place in Chalkwell Park and is especially suited to those who take little or no physical activity.

One-off events including 14-25s basketball sessions and yoga on the pier also take place throughout the year, and residents can keep up-to-date on new activities by visiting activesouthend.com.

Residents can get involved with the Get Healthy Hub, for more opportunities to be active and healthy in the area. For one-to-one sessions call 01702 461377.

Southend-on-Sea Borough Council Leisure Officer Kevin Read said: “Active Southend is all about encouraging people to get involved in sports and activities in a friendly, fun environment and see the benefits of being active.

There is always a great range of clubs to join and sessions to attend, aimed at everyone from those who currently do little or no physical activity to those who want to join a team sport to combine exercising with socialising.”

■ For more information, visit Active Southend’s Facebook page on facebook.com/activesouthend or go to @activesouthend on Twitter.

Tell us – do it online: www.southend.gov.uk

Tennis all the year UNLIMITED outdoor tennis is being served up all year round for just 50p per week at Chalkwell Park and Priory Park’s floodlit courts. By purchasing a key fob for £27.50 per year, residents can take advantage of the outdoor courts and benefit from as much tennis as they like.

For more information and to purchase a key fob, visit southendparkstennis.com and follow the online steps, or call 01702 613000.

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Get ready to A

new initiative is set to make Southend sparkle by supporting local residents, groups and businesses to enhance the area and make it a greener and cleaner place to live.

People are being encouraged to take pride in the town and help tackle litter and fly-tipping as well as take on environmentally focused projects, such as tree planting, to help improve the streetscape.

The initiative will be part of an ongoing multimedia campaign to keep residents and businesses informed about the range of projects and opportunities to be involved.

Existing neighbourhood improvement schemes will be brought together in the Make Southend Sparkle campaign along with new initiatives to

help recruit volunteers and attract more money and match funding. This means that small grants will also be provided to local community groups, allowing a range of residents to have an impact in enhancing Southend.

Nick Harris, Head of Culture, said: “Southend is already a wonderfully green borough with five Green Flag-status parks and award-winning beaches.

“We already have various community groups who do wonderful work in making their neighbourhoods greener and cleaner, and many more who have expressed an interest in becoming involved in such activities.

“The project will bring together local groups and businesses and help provide them with the skills, resources and some funding to make a real

difference to the environment of their neighbourhoods.”

There will be opportunities for everyone to be involved, from businesses wishing to sponsor a roundabout to free litter pickers available for those who want to help clean up their street or favourite area.

Southend-onSea resident Raffy Juaton in the Green Flag-status Prittlewell Square Gardens – one of the Borough's greenest, cleanest parks. Raffy is also pictured on the cover.

■ Anyone wishing to help should visit the campaign’s Facebook page – facebook.com/makesouthend sparkle – which will keep people informed about opportunities and provide a way to share stories about how residents have helped enhance the area.

Venues Southend Visit our new webpage www.southend.gov.uk/ southendvenues for further information or to download a brochure @southendvenues

facebook.com/ southendvenues

southendvenues

southendvenues

Unique, modern and historical locations in Southend available for social and business functions plus weddings and other special occasions PRITTLEWELL PRIORY Beautiful Wedding venue set in the heart of the towns biggest and most beautiful park

SOUTHCHURCH HALL Stunning Medieval Manor House complete with surrounding moat within a green oasis

TICKFIELD CENTRE Multipurpose training facility with state of the art facilities and free car parking

PORTERS HOUSE 15th century medieval house surrounded by beautiful gardens available exclusively for weddings and special events

CIVIC CENTRE Ideal for meetings, exhibitions or conferences with on-site restaurant and rooms available for up to 250 guests

16 Outlook SPRING 2016

t: 01702 212032 e: venuesandevents@southend.gov.uk

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Iconic archive of CONIC instruments used by music legends like Louis Armstrong, Sir John Dankworth and Humphrey Lyttelton are on display in Southend now the National Jazz Archive has come to town.

I

The ever-expanding archive based at Loughton has opened a permanent exhibition and research facility at the Beecroft Gallery after signing a 10-year agreement with Southend-on-Sea Borough Council.

The archive boasts the UK’s finest collection of books, periodicals, unpublished material, records, film, photographs and instruments from the 1920s to the present day.

Renowned Southend trumpeter Digby Fairweather set it up in 1988 to safeguard jazz memorabilia and culture for future generations, musicians, enthusiasts and researchers.

Digby said: “This wonderful development represents the most significant advance in the preservation of jazz culture since

the National Jazz Archive opened and its arrival opens the doors for endless possibilities in the future including the establishment of a national jazz centre for the UK.” Rosemary Pennington, Cultural Development Officer, said: “Culture is not only critical for our continued ability to draw tourists to our town and shores but also makes an enormous contribution to the wellbeing of our residents.

“That’s why the Council was keen to support the National Jazz Archive in their hunt for more space for expansion and why I’m delighted to be able to welcome the archive to a part of town that, with the museum, planetarium and recently relocated Beecroft Gallery, is rapidly establishing itself as a cultural quarter.”

Staffed by volunteers, the archive is open from 10am to 5pm on Saturdays.

More volunteers and funding is being sought so it can expand its activities.

Digby Fairweather with a Louis Armstrong trumpet and Sir John Dankworth piano at the National Jazz Archive.

Preventing exploitation

SHIP website floats a host of useful information MORE people are being urged to visit the SHIP website – a one-stop advice and service directory which is crammed full of easy to use and useful information for children, families and adults.

Run by Southend-on-Sea Borough Council, the directory lists childcare organisations, child minders and schools, support groups, clubs and helpful voluntary organisations for all ages.

It also provides information and advice for carers, a directory of services for children with disabilities, advice on benefits, adult social services and residential care homes.

A link to NHS Choices content means people can find out how

Council Information Advice and Guidance Officer Robert Powell, who manages the SHIP website, with the home page on screen.

to stay healthy and find information about medical conditions and preventative advice.

Users can review the services

View it – do it online: www.southend.gov.uk

they have used to help other people make their choices.

To visit or submit details for a listing, go to southendinfo point.org

HANDS-ON training and support is helping raise awareness of what makes children and adults vulnerable to exploitation by extremists and how they can help prevent it from happening.

A Home Office approved training programme has been rolled out across schools and colleges to ensure that teachers and other staff know how to spot these vulnerable people and are able to intervene appropriately.

Organisations across Southend including the Police, NHS and the Council also take part in “Channel” panel meetings, where they hear concerns about specific cases and identify how people can be supported.

This support may involve help with parenting, housing, advice in relation to finances or meetings with a mentor.

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People urged to make more use of pharmacies HEALTH bosses in Southend-on-Sea are asking people to make more use of their local pharmacy for advice on common illnesses instead of visiting Accident and Emergency.

It comes after a surge in patients at Southend University Hospital forced medics to declare a black alert and issue a Signposting reminder that people should only go to people for first A&E if they are seriously unwell or advice on common critically injured. illnesses is Conditions requiring an A&E visit Leigh-on-Sea include choking, chest pain, loss of pharmacist Fizz consciousness, severe blood loss, broken Haji. bones, deep wounds or suspected stroke.

Pharmacists can offer guidance on a range of conditions like head and ear ache, coughs and colds, warts, head lice and minor infections. They also provide stop smoking, sexual health and alcohol support services.

Sue Hardy, the Chief Executive of Pharmacy in Leigh-on-Sea said:“You can Southend University Hospital NHS visit any pharmacist without an Foundation Trust, said:“We would like to appointment – you just walk in. remind anyone who is unsure of the best “We can offer advice on a range of minor course of action to always ring NHS 111 for conditions and many medications that health advice 24 hours a day, seven days a used to be prescription only are now week, or to speak to their GP or available over the counter. pharmacist.”

“We train for more than five years and Pharmacist Fizz Haji from the Belfairs we have to participate in a continuous

professional development programme in order to continue practising.

“We will refer a patient back to their GP if it is something we are unable to help with.”

He added that many pharmacists now offer private consulting rooms and a chaperone service as part of continuing improvements to customer service.

Free WiFi is now available IN LIBRARIES F

REE WiFi is now available at libraries in Southend-on-Sea as part of an ongoing investment in new facilities.

Residents simply need to register on their device with a library ticket, which can be collected at customer service desks, and they can then scroll on the move.

Previously, people had to log in to library computers for one hour’s free access before then having to pay £4 per hour.

Meanwhile, the first phase of upgrades to library computers will begin in the summer with around 90 brand new

machines being installed across all six libraries and The Forum.

Group Manager Simon May said: “We’ve had great comments from residents about the free WiFi and we’re now looking at making the log-in process simpler as a result of feedback. People looking to do work in the libraries have been especially delighted as it gives them the same experience as working from home or in the office.

“We’re also giving residents a say in deciding whether we should invest in laptops or desktop computers for our upgrade, which will be completed by April 2017.”

To give feedback or voice an opinion on whether laptops or desktop computers should be installed, email simonmay@southend.gov.uk or call 01702 534101.

18 Outlook SPRING 2016

Southend-on-Sea resident Matt Belcher uses his mobile phone to connect with the free WiFi at The Forum library.

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TIDE IS TURNING

against litter A

S part of new cleaning arrangements this summer, Southend-on-Sea Borough Council will be deploying a state-of-the-art beach cleaning machine.

The process involves raking the sand to clear litter and small objects that may be below surface level.

Imran Kazalbash, the Council’s Waste Service Manager, said: “This operation will further improve our already well kept beaches and is excellent preparation to welcome our tourists this year.”

As well as this new machine the Council provides over 250 litterbins along the seafront for visitors to deposit their litter and everyone is reminded to use them or take their litter home with them.

General cleansing operations are also carried out late into the evening and then early morning to ensure the beaches are in pristine condition during peak periods.

The Council’s new beach cleaning machine in action.

Bust commemorates Queen’s 90th birthday THE Duke of Kent officially opened The Forum Southend-on-Sea and unveiled a stunning sculpture of Her Majesty The Queen.

His Royal Highness carried out the ceremony at the thriving library and learning hub in Elmer Square – developed through a unique three-way partnership.

The innovative arrangement saw Southend-on-Sea Borough Council, the University of Essex and South Essex College pool resources to jointly provide the country’s first wholly integrated public, university and college library.

The Duke met key dignitaries and representatives from the three organisations before chatting with pupils from Thorpdene School in the children’s library.

Later he visited the Focal Point Gallery before unveiling the special sculpture of The Queen, which was commissioned to mark her 90th birthday in June.

It was created by Essex-born painter and figurative sculptor John Doubleday, whose works include Charlie Chaplin at Leicester Square and Brunel at Paddington Station.

Chief Executive of the Council Rob Tinlin said: “We were thrilled to welcome The Duke of Kent to officially open The Forum and unveil the bust of The Queen.

“We are very proud of The Forum because it is such an exceptionally successful and unique partnership project which has thoroughly revitalised this section of our town centre.”

View it – do it online: www.southend.gov.uk

Forum User Support Officer Carol McArthur admires the new sculpture of The Queen.

SPRING 2016 Outlook

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What’s On Sea ■ Sat 2 April

SOUTHEND YOUNG ARCHAEOLOGISTS CLUB: ARCHAEOLOGY IS RUBBISH!

The tall ship Mercedes set to visit Southend Pier.

CONTACT DETAILS

Prittlewell Priory,Visitor Centre, 10am-12noon What does rubbish tell us about people who lived in the past? Discover the past by looking at coprolites, rubbish pits, food remains and pottery remains.What will our rubbish tell archaeologists in the future about how we live now? – Why not join Southend Museums branch of the Young Archaeologists Club while your there? £2 on the door.

■ Southend Events www.southend.gov.uk/events www.visitsouthend.co.uk ■ Southend Museums www.southendmuseums.co.uk or call 01702 215011

■ Thur 7 April – Mon 2 May

■ The Forum www.theforumsouthend.co.uk

ESSEX MONOCHROME GROUP EXHIBITION The Forum Formed in 2015, EMG are a small photographic group concentrating on furthering the appreciation of monochrome photography as an art form, not merely a documentary tool, and inspiring others to take up this pleasurable pastime.

■ Wed 9 March–Tue 29 March ‘PURSUIT OF HARMONY’ EXHIBITION

BY JANA HUBINKOVA

Forum Space, the Forum, Southend Mon-Fri,8am-10pm,Sat,8am-6pm,Sun,11am-5pm A stunning acrylic and paper exhibition of spiritual and abstract pictures reflecting themes like awakening, love and self-confidence.The energy of this exhibition is designed to inspire a harmonising effect. FREE

■ Sat 9 & Sun10 April

SPRING FOLK & ALE FESTIVAL The Royal Pavilion, Southend Pier, Western Esplanade, 12noon-7pm There will be scores of performers singing, playing and dancing and all will be giving their time freely to support the Leigh Folk Festival.

Styles of music will vary from contemporary through traditional and shanty to Cajun and everything in between. 01702 215620.

■ Wed 10 March–Thu 31 March (Closed 14-15 March) HOPE IN THE GREAT WAR EXHIBITION

■ Tue 15 April

The Royal Pavilion, Southend Pier, Western Esplanade, 10am-4pm Hope in the Great War tells the wartime story of six heroic RNLI rescues, with family friendly, interactive displays.See the First World War through the eyes of those living on the coast of the UK and Ireland and honour the courage of RNLI rescuers and survivors.

01702 215620. (Pier admissions apply)

CONCERT SERIES – WAKA HASEGAWA AND JOSEPH TONG Plaza Centre, Southchurch Road, 8pm Tickets can be purchased from 01702 215011 (Mon-Fri office hours), or at ticket outlets on Southend Pier, Allegro Music, London Road, Westcliff and Plaza Centre.

■ Until Sat 15 April

BIG SCREEN SOUTHEND PRESENTS – VERITY BIRT, LAURA O'NEILL AND LUCY PAWLAK

■ Thu 17 March

ESSEX BOOK FESTIVAL: CHRISTINE DWYER HICKEY: THE LIVES OF WOMEN The Forum, Southend, Library Meetings Rooms, 2pm What better way to celebrate St Patrick’s Day than with one of Ireland’s best-loved writers! £7/£5 (25 years and under) www.mercurytheatre.co.uk

■ Fri 18 March

CONCERT SERIES – MIN-JIN KYM AND IAN BROWN Plaza Centre, Southchurch Road, 8pm Tickets can be purchased from 01702 215011 (Mon-Fri office hours), or at ticket outlets on Southend Pier, Allegro Music, London Road, Westcliff and Plaza Centre.

■ Sat 19 March–Sat 16 April

■ Sat 19 & Sun 20 March

ESSEX BOOK FESTIVAL – SOUTHEND AREA LOCAL AUTHORS’ DAY (SALAD) The Forum, Southend, Sat, 10am-4pm, Sun, 11am-4pm Local authors will be giving talks, storytelling and readings in the Deeping room, on the first floor of the Forum. Come and meet some very talented and colourful local authors, whose works span a wide variety of literary genres from local history, fiction and non-fiction, to fantasy, science fiction and children’s books. FREE

■ Sat 19 March–Fri 25 June

EMANUELA DI FILIPPO

THE EAST LONDON ARTISTS GROUP – ‘OUT OF THE CITY’

Beecroft Art Gallery, Basement Gallery, Tue-Sat, 10am-5pm An exhibition featuring a series of seventy oil pastels on paper inspired by the shapes of Italian fashion clothing and work uniforms.FREE

Beecroft Art Gallery: Ground Floor Gallery, Tues-Sat,10am-5pm The East London Group became widely known in the 1920s and ‘30s for sparse urban views and street-scenes but also painted extensively outside

For details about Southend United’s upcoming fixtures and other events organised by the club visit www.southendunited.co.uk, 08444 770077 or via the Blues Box Office @ Roots Hall.

20 Outlook SPRING 2016

their native East End surroundings,often in East Anglia.This exhibition will focus on their pictures “Out of the City”, offering a rare opportunity to view works unseen since the 1930s.FREE

■ Tue 24 March

ESSEX BOOK FESTIVAL: ANDREW LOWNIE: STALIN’S ENGLISHMAN – THE LIVES OF GUY BURGESS The Forum 2nd Floor Teaching Rooms, Southend, 7.30pm Guy Burgess was the most important,complex and fascinating of ‘The Cambridge Spies’, four brilliant young men recruited in the 1930s to betray their country to the Soviet Union.Once the youngest director in British publishing and founder of the Biographers Club,Andrew Lownie shows us how even Burgess’s chaotic personal life of drunken philandering did nothing to stop his penetration and betrayal of the British Intelligence Service. £7/£5 (25 years and under) www.mercurytheatre.co.uk

Big Screen presents work from emerging artists.

Big Screen Southend is a partnership between the Borough Council, Focal Point Gallery, University of Essex, South Essex College and The Forum. It showcases the work of emerging artists on a purpose-built display screen in the heart of town.Times for performance will vary between 8am and 6pm, 7 days a week.

■ Sat 23 April–Sat 21 May

METAL ART SCHOOL EXHIBITION – PRESENTS: NETPARK ILLUSTRATORS Beecroft Art Gallery, Basement Space, Tues-Sat, 10am-5pm An exhibition of original sketches, creative processes and final works by five illustrators commissioned by Metal to create imagery working with Southend school pupils and a writer to create a series of new site-specific stories for NetPark, the world’s first digital art park in Chalkwell Park Southend. Artists: Zoe Barker, Karl Lawson, Maggi Li, Claire Softley and Maddy Vian. FREE

■ Thur 5 May

LUNCHTIME CURATOR'S TALK – BEHIND THE SCENES IN THE ARCHAEOLOGY STORE Museums off-site store, 12noon-1pm

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A GUIDE TO KEY SPRING/SUMMER EVENTS IN SOUTHEND

With Luisa Hagele, Assistant Curator of Archaeology. Marvel at our massive stores in Prittlewell and get an insight into how and why we collect so much archaeology in the area.

Please note you will receive email notification of the secret location meeting point after booking. £6 southendlam.eventbrite.co.uk

■ Sun 8 & 15 May, 19 June, 31 July & 14 August SUNDAY SHOWCASE The Royal Pavilion Southend Pier, 12.30pm-6pm A series of live music featuring local bands and artists, performing on the world’s longest pleasure pier.

Entry is free and a licensed bar will be available.

01702 215620 (pier admissions apply)

PRIORY PARK BANDSTAND CONCERTS SOUTHEND BANDSTAND • PRIORY PARK • 3PM-5PM • SOME SEATING IS PROVIDED AND LIMITED PARKING

■ Fri 13 May

CONCERT SERIES – ATTACCA TRIO Plaza Centre, Southchurch Road, 8pm Tickets can be purchased from 01702 215011 (Mon-Fri office hours), or at ticket outlets on Southend Pier, Allegro Music, London Road, Westcliff and Plaza Centre.

■ Thur 9–Sun 12 June MERCEDES TALL SHIP VISIT

Information Centre at Southend Pier, Western Esplanade The wonderful tall ship Mercedes is visiting Southend Pier. On Thursday the 9th and Friday the 10th of June for a small fee you will have the chance to climb aboard and see what life is really like on a tall ship.The weekend of 11th and 12th the ship will be doing pre-bookable sailings.

Tickets will be available via the Visitor 01702 215620.

■ Sun 12 June

STONES THROW SPONSORED WALK Southend Pier,Western Esplanade, 9am-5pm The walk takes place for the whole day.

Registrations from 9am to 5pm.There is no charge and entry to the pier is free if people are a registered Stones Throw 'thrower' and they are wearing their wristband.We only expect the person,or persons,to make a voluntary donation to Cancer Research UK on the day.Participants walk as many times as they want and can collect individual sponsorship to help us with the total.

01702 215620.

■ Fri 1 July

SHAKESPIER – THE COMEDY OF ERRORS The Royal Pavilion, Southend Pier, Western Esplanade, 7.30pm-7.45pm ‘The Comedy Of Errors’, 01702 215620.

■ Sun 27 March Yardarm Folk Orchestra, ■ Sun 1 May Thundersley Brass Band ■ Sat 7 May Little Theatre Company ■ Sun 8 May Yardarm Folk Orchestra ■ Sat 14 May John Seeley ‘s Jazz and Saxophone Group ■ Sun 15 May Da Management ■ Sat 21 May Sid Bolan Big Band ■ Sun 22 May Essex Concert Band ■ Sat 28 May Southend Jazz Co-operative ■ Sun 29 May “Just John” – solo singer Fund raising for Southend Hospital ■ Mon 30 May Harmonie Concert Band ■ Sat 4 June Dave Warren Jazz Quartet ■ Sun 5 June Timeline ■ Sat 11 June Interplay Jazz Quintet

■ Sun 12 June Chelmsford Silver Band ■ Sat 18 June Southend Band ■ Sun 19 June Brentwood Ursuline Convent High School Bands ■ Sat 25 June Avanti “Easy Listening” ■ Sun 26 June Tilbury Brass Academy ■ Sat 9 July Hadleigh Salvation Army Band ■ Sun 10 July Southend Vox ■ Sat 16 July Variety Jazz Band ■ Sun 17 July Fantazmajazz ■ Sat 23 July Pat English Band ■ Sun 24 July D’Ukes Ukulele band ■ Sat 30 July Chernenko Jazz ■ Sun 31 July Bryan Williamson Big Band ■ Sat 6 August Rayleigh Brass ■ Sun 7 August Melvin Beddow Big Band

■ Sat 13 August Tilbury Brass Band ■ Sun 14 August Aveley and Newham Brass Band ■ Sat 20 August Graham Hunter Cool Jazz Quartet ■ Sun 21st August Becontree Brass Band ■ Sat 27 August Sidetrack – 50s,60s,& 70s ■ Sun 28 August DG Quartet and Sharon Scott ■ Mon 29 August Butler/Crawford Duo ■ Sat 3 September Southend Wind Orchestra ■ Sun 4 September Kickstart ■ Sat 10 September The Famous Potatoes ■ Sun 11 September Cantare ■ Sat 17 September Essex Yeomanry Band ■ Sun 18 September Harlow Concert Band ■ Sat 24 September Daisy Bowlers ■ Sun 25 September Indigo Shade

■ Fri 1 July

‘THE BATTLE OF THE SOMME’ Big Screen,The Forum Film shown accompanied by live orchestra performing orchestral score by Laura Rossi.

Bring a chair or a blanket.

FREE

■ Sat 6 & Sun 7 August

SOUTHEND PIER PUPPET FESTIVAL The Royal Pavilion, 11am-5pm The Southend Pier Puppet Festival returns again this August for a weekend of fun and entertainment.With Punch and Judy shows running throughout both days this event promises to appeal to families and people of all ages.

COUNCIL DIARY

■ Cabinet Tuesday, 15 March, 2pm ■ Development Control Committee: Wednesday, 13 April, 2pm ■ Council Thursday, 21 April, 6.30pm ■ Annual Council: Thursday, 12 May, 3.30pm All meetings are held at the

Civic Centre,Victoria Avenue, Southend-on-Sea. Details of all Council meetings are available at www.southend.gov.uk/ councilmeetings Youth Council meetings take place on the first Wednesday of every month in the Council Chamber at the Civic Centre, 5pm-7pm.

SPRING 2016 Outlook

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The Council has 51 Councillors elected to represent you. There are 17 wards, each with three elected members.

See the map to find out which Councillors represent you.

If you are having difficulty contacting your Councillor please call 01702 215000.

To find out which Ward you are in please visit www.southend.gov.uk/whereilive

Your Councillors BELFAIRS WARD

BLENHEIM PARK

Cllr Stephen Aylen (Ind)

Cllr Maureen Butler (Con) Cllr Lesley Salter (Con)

Cllr James Courtenay (Con) Cllr Graham Longley (LD)

Cllr Floyd Waterworth (UKIP)

16 Woodside, Belfairs, Leigh-on-Sea SS9 4QU Tel: 01702 527747 cllraylen@southend.gov.uk

33 The Fairway, Leigh-on-Sea SS9 4QN Tel: 01702 212867 cllrbutler@southend.gov.uk

24 Surbiton Road, Southend-on-Sea, SS2 4NS Tel: 01702 212870 cllrcourtenay@southend.gov.uk

50a Eastwood Rise, Leigh-on-Sea SS9 5BT Tel: 01702 212892 cllrwaterworth@southend.gov.uk

4 Chadwick Road, Westcliff-on-Sea SS0 8LS Tel: 01702 432364 cllrsalter@southend.gov.uk

CHALKWELL WARD

28 McDivitt Walk, Leigh-on-Sea SS9 5UD Tel: 01702 520234 cllrlongley@southend.gov.uk

EASTWOOD PARK WARD

Cllr Nigel Folkard (Con)

Cllr Stephen Habermel (Con) Cllr Ian Robertson (Con)

Cllr Trevor Byford (Con)

Cllr Andrew Moring (Con) Cllr Chris Walker (Con)

25 Hayes Barton, Southend -on-Sea SS1 3TS Tel: 01702 582828 cllrfolkard@southend.gov.uk

6 Leas Gardens, Southend-on-Sea SS0 8JL Tel: 01702 478354 cllrhabermel@southend.gov.uk

2 Badgers Close, Westcliff-on-Sea SS0 0AP Tel: 01702 437274 cllrbyford@southend.gov.uk

554 Woodgrange Drive, Southend-on-Sea SS1 3EL Tel: 01702 585957 cllrmoring@southend.gov.uk

60 Fillebrook Avenue, Leigh-on-Sea, Essex, SS9 3NT Tel: 01702 873574 cllritrobertson@southend.gov.uk

KURSAAL WARD

256 Rayleigh Road, Eastwood SS9 5XL Tel: 01702 528027 cllrwalker@southend.gov.uk

LEIGH WARD

Cllr Lawrence Davies (SIG) Cllr Anne Jones (Lab)

Cllr Judy McMahon (Lab)

Cllr Bernard Arscott (Con) Cllr Alan Crystall (LD)

Cllr Carole Mulroney (LD)

13 Beresford Road, Southend-on-Sea SS1 2TW Tel: 01702 212889 cllrdavies@southend.gov.uk

37A Pleasant Road, Southend-on-Sea SS1 2HQ Tel: 01702 212894 cllrmcmahon@southend.gov.uk

40 Glenbervie Drive, Leigh-on-Sea SS9 3JT Tel: 01702 212062 cllrarscott@southend.gov.uk

83 Southsea Avenue, Leigh-on-Sea SS9 2BH Tel: 01702 212890 cllrmulroney@southend.gov.uk

2 Hastings Road, Southend-on-Sea SS1 2DR Tel: 01702 460952 cllrannejones@southend.gov.uk

MILTON WARD

16 Cliff Parade, Leigh-on-Sea SS9 1AS Tel: 01702 474047 cllrcrystall@southend.gov.uk

PRITTLEWELL WARD

Cllr Jonathan Garston (Con) Cllr Cheryl Nevin (Lab)

Cllr Julian Ware-Lane (Lab)

Cllr Mary Betson (LD)

Cllr Tino Callaghan (SIG)

Cllr Meg Davidson (Con)

23a Clifftown Parade, Southend-on-Sea SS1 1DN Tel: 01702 335017 cllrjgarston@southend.gov.uk

37 Nelson Road, Leigh-on-Sea SS9 3HX Tel: 01702 472144 cllrware-lane@southend.gov.uk

11 Byfield, Eastwood SS9 5TG Tel: 01702 212861 cllrbetson@southend.gov.uk

23 Oasis Court, 18 Kenway, Southend-on-Sea SS2 5DX Tel: 07866 888588 cllrcallaghan@southend.gov.uk

47 Priory Avenue, Southend-on-Sea SS2 6LA Tel: 01702 212351 cllrdavidson@southend.gov.uk

143 Flemming Crescent, Leigh-on-Sea SS9 4HT Tel: 01702 212879 cllrnevin@southend.gov.uk

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SHOEBURYNESS WARD

SOUTHCHURCH WARD

Cllr Mike Assenheim (Ind) Cllr Roger Hadley (Con)

Cllr Nick Ward (Ind)

Cllr David Garston (Con)

Cllr Ann Holland (Con)

Cllr Derek Kenyon (Ind)

76 Elm Road, Shoeburyness SS3 9RD Tel: 01702 291720 cllrassenheim@southend.gov.uk

189 Eastern Esplanade, Southend-on-Sea SS1 3AA Tel: 01702 212871 cllrward@southend.gov.uk

10 Eden Point, Rectory Grove, Leigh-on-Sea, Essex, SS9 2BF Tel: 01702 212877 cllrdgarston@southend.gov.uk

7 Silchester Court, Silchester Corner, Gt Wakering SS3 0PX Tel: 01702 580855 cllrholland@southend.gov.uk

25 Ladram Road, Thorpe Bay SS1 3PX Tel: 01702 582017 cllrkenyon@southend.gov.uk

33 Mountbatten Drive, Shoeburyness SS3 8UY Tel: 01702 292490 cllrhadley@southend.gov.uk

ST LAURENCE WARD

ST LUKES WARD

Cllr Steve Buckley (Con)

Cllr Mark Flewitt (Con)

Cllr David McGlone (UKIP)

Cllr Brian Ayling (Ind)

Cllr Caroline Endersby (Ind) Cllr Paul Van Looy (Ind)

11 Borman Close, Leigh-on-Sea SS9 5UJ Tel: 01702 212368 cllrbuckley@southend.gov.uk

11 Borman Close, Leigh-on-Sea SS9 5UJ Tel: 01702 510463 cllrflewitt@southend.gov.uk

534 Prince Avenue, Westcliff-on-Sea SS0 0ER Tel: 01702 212037 cllrmcglone@southend.gov.uk

108a Ennismore Gardens, Southend-on-Sea SS2 5RB Tel: 01702 461840 cllrayling@southend.gov.uk

491 Sutton Road, Southend-on-Sea SS2 5PL Tel: 01702 212882 cllrendersby@southend.gov.uk

THORPE WARD

54 Arlington Road, Southend-on-Sea SS2 4UW Tel: 01702 615658 cllrvanlooy@southend.gov.uk

VICTORIA WARD

Cllr Mike Stafford (Ind)

Cllr Martin Terry (Ind)

Cllr Ron Woodley (Ind)

Cllr Margaret Borton (Lab) Cllr Ian Gilbert (Lab)

Cllr David Norman (Lab)

85 Maplin Way, Thorpe Bay, SS1 3NL Tel: 01702 297648 cllrstafford@southend.gov.uk

66 Victoria Road, Southend-on-Sea SS1 2TF Tel: 01702 619655 cllrterry@southend.gov.uk

91 Tyrone Road, Southend-on-Sea SS1 3HD Tel: 01702 588662 cllrwoodley@southend.gov.uk

85 Rochester Drive, Westcliff-on-Sea SS0 0NJ Tel: 01702 212862 cllrborton@southend.gov.uk

41 Vernon Road, Leigh-on-Sea SS9 2NG Tel: 01702 212897 cllrdnorman@southend.gov.uk

WEST LEIGH WARD

132 Central Avenue, Southend-on-Sea SS2 4DZ Tel: 01702 212878 cllrgilbert@southend.gov.uk

WEST SHOEBURY WARD

Cllr Fay Evans (Con)

Cllr John Lamb (Con)

Cllr Georgina Phillips (Con)

Cllr Tony Cox (Con)

Cllr Derek Jarvis (Con)

Cllr James Moyies (SIG)

192 Highlands Boulevard, Leigh-on-Sea SS9 3QX Tel: 01702 558657 cllrevans@southend.gov.uk

77 Vardon Drive, Leigh-on-Sea SS9 3SJ Tel: 01702 483908 cllrlamb@southend.gov.uk

63 Marine Parade, Leigh-on-Sea SS9 2NQ Tel: 01702 534644 cllrphillips@southend.gov.uk

Flat D, Mill Lodge, West Road, Shoeburyness SS3 9DP Tel: 01702 298576 cllrcox@southend.gov.uk

Flat 1, Gunnery House, 2 Chapel Road, The Garrison, Shoeburyness SS3 9SL Tel: 01702 292744 cllrjarvis@southend.gov.uk

9 Malsmead, Shoeburyness SS3 8AZ Tel: 01702 212880 cllrmoyies@southend.gov.uk

Southend-on-Sea Borough Council Cabinet

WESTBOROUGH WARD

Cllr Kevin Robinson (Lab) Cllr Dr Vel (Ind)

Cllr Charles Willis (Lab)

93 Brightwell Avenue Westcliff-on-Sea SS0 9EG Tel: 01702 212864 cllrkrobinson@southend.gov.uk

36 Woodcote Road, Leigh-on-Sea SS9 3NP Tel: 01702 212260 cllrwillis@southend.gov.uk

61 Thorpebay Gardens, Thorpe Bay SS1 3NP Tel: 01702 711299 cllrvelmurugan@southend.gov.uk

Tell us – do it online: www.southend.gov.uk

■ Ron Woodley (Leader) ■ Ian Gilbert (Deputy Leader and Executive Councillor for Community Development and Organisational Development) ■ Mary Betson (Executive Councillor for Enterprise, Tourism and Economic Development) ■ Martin Terry (Public Protection, Waste and Transport) ■ Anne Jones (Children and Learning) ■ David Norman (Housing, Planning and Regulatory Services) ■ James Moyies (Health and Adult Social Care) SPRING 2016 Outlook

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The world-famous Southend Pier. Inset, Trainee Driver Alice Pickering waves from one of the much loved trains, the Sir William Heygate.

Investment in pier will ensure a bright future for attraction

P

EERLESS Southend Pier will continue to be just that thanks to Council plans to safeguard its future as the Borough’s premier tourist attraction.

Decking, lamp columns, electrics, shelters and toilets are all set to be improved over the next four years now £1.98 million has been earmarked in the capital budget. That spending is on top of £2.65 million brought forward from last year’s budget for structural work.

The pier’s trains are nearing the end of their working life after 30 years’ service, so replacement is being considered as part of a feasibility study which is also looking at the future of the former AMF Bowling Alley.

Better food and drink is on the menu now that catering contractor, Vertas, has taken over the running of the Royal Pavillion Cafe.

Meanwhile, Jamie and Jimmy’s Cafe as featured on chef Jamie Oliver’s TV show will again double up as a take-away this year when it is not being used for filming.

The highly successful Adopt a Plank scheme which also helps pay for service improvements on the pier is to continue with those taking part paying £100 for a plaque and a certificate

24 Outlook SPRING 2016

Resort Services Officer Laurraine Lucas with the sponsors’ name panels for the Adopt a Plank scheme which continues to help fund improvements to the pier.

to remember an anniversary, a departed loved one or a wedding.

Council Resort Services Manager Lynn Jones said: “These are exciting times for the pier and we’re determined as a Council to improve our world-renowned attraction and encourage more people to visit. Plenty of work is planned to keep the world’s longest pleasure pier looking its best and we’re even thinking about the future of our much loved trains.

“They’ve been well-maintained over the years but they first started trundling up and down the pier in 1986 and were only supposed to be in service for 15 years so we’ve all had our fair share of fun out of them.

“Last year, the pier clocked up a new record in visitor numbers since it was devastated by fire in 2005. It remains our jewel in the crown so we’re determined it continues its phoenix-like rise from the ashes.”