Longpier

FESTIVE: Merry Christmas from Longpier.com

2009-12-24T14:06:00.002Z

Just a quick post to wish everyone a Merry Christmas.

Longpier.com will be taking a short break over the festive period and will return with more great coverage of Southend and surrounding areas in the New Year (unless something massive happens!)

Enjoy your holidays...

FESTIVE: Top 10 Longpier videos of 2009

2009-12-23T13:36:00.005Z

We were out and about in the Southend area this year, filming lots of big events for Longpier.com. From the airshow to charity events, we provided unrivalled coverage via this site, Youtube and Twitter. We also featured live blogging - a first for a Southend site. So in descending numerical order here are the top 10 videos, by views of 2009.

10. Southend Festival of the Air 2009 - Anita Thornberry interview
James interviews the head of Enterprise, Tourism and Regeneration at Southend Borough Council

9. Longpier.com interview with Ian Sanders
James talks to Entrepreneur, Project Manager, Ideas-Producer, Writer and Marketing Consultant, and Leigh resident Ian Sanders, about how to lead a successful "juggle" life.

8. Southend Festival of the Air 2009 - Welcome
James introduces Longpier.com's coverage of this year's airshow

7. The Blockheads - Village Green @ Chalkwell Park
The Blockheads kick off their set with a classic.

6. TAP opening night, Southend - Part 2
Longpier.com takes a tour of TAP - a new arts space for Southend. In part two, Emma Emmerton takes us through the artist workshops and shows us what's on offer. Video taken on launch night

5. Moonlight Colourthon 2009 - Part One
James chats to the walkers at Chalkwell Park, before they set off for the 13.5 mile walk around the Southend area. The walkers warm up and get ready for the Colourthon. Can you spot yourself? 1300 walkers raised £140,000 for 236 different charities.

4. TAP opening night, Southend - Part 1
Longpier.com takes a tour of TAP - a new arts space for Southend. In the first part of two, Emma Emmerton takes us through the gallery and shows us what's on offer.

3. Moonlight Colourthon 2009 - Part Two
The walkers set off from Chalkwell Park on a 13.5 mile trip, pounding the streets of Westcliff, Southend, Leigh on Sea and Chalkwell. James interviews Olympian Mark Foster and asks him why he's supporting this year's Colourthon. Can you see yourself in this film?

2. Billy Bragg's Big Busk - Village Green @ Chalkwell Park
Billy Bragg and Phill Jupitus lead the way as the public joins in with the song.

WINNER
1. Southend Festival of the Air 2009 - Red Arrows uncut
Everyone loves the Red Arrows - over 1,700 people have clicked on this video, which was shot AND uploaded on the same day. Check out this 11min video.

GUIDE: New Year's Eve in Southend area

2009-12-21T12:16:00.004Z

Still haven't decided where to go for New Year's Eve? Well Southend's bars, clubs and restaurants have something for everyone on the evening of the 31st. From house to chill, from garage to r'n'b, from good food to good wine, there's bound to be a venue that'll suit your need. Below is a list - it's comprehensive but not yet complete, so if you know of an event that's not listed here then get in touch - longpier@gmail.com

SOUTHEND:
Mayhem: Garage Nation - garage
£15 in advance, £20 on the door
9pm - 4am

Talk: Honeytrap - Commercial anthems & party
£5 in advance up to 24th Dec, then £10
9pm - 4am

Element: New Year's Eve - Commercial & dance anthems
£10 in advance, more on the door
9pm - 4am

Storm: Too Damn Glam presents Labyrinth Fantasy Mask Ball - dance, r n b
£20 in advance includes free coach
9pm - 4am

Churchills: Mega Party all mainline drinks included in the price, with free buffet
£30
9pm-3am

The Royal Hotel: Tuff & Deadly - House, Techno, Electronic
£7
9pm-8am

Pipe of Port: New Year's Eve Champagne Party - food, drink, chat
£87 in advance
8am - late

WESTCLIFF:
Riga Music Bar: The Magnets' New Year's Eve Party - Pop a capella
£18 in advance
8.30pm - 2am

Cliffs Pavilion: Motown Duo After Dark - SOLD OUT
£45 for 4 course meal & disco or £37 for Fish & Chip Supper (both still available)

LEIGH ON SEA
SS9 - New Years Eve - "Special guest DJs".
£free to bar - dinner&dance is £29.99

Zabrano - New Years Eve - "Live entertainment"
£free to bar - special dinner £34.50

HADLEIGH:
La Quinta - New Year's Eve - "smoove" grooves, soul, r n b
£10 in advance
9pm - 4am

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Missing your event? Email longpier@gmail.com and we'll be more than happy to post it on this page

NEWS: Battle over Rochford land intensifies

2009-12-21T08:55:00.003Z

You may remember back in September, Longpier.com featured this story - the battle over recreational and green belt land in Rochford. A very active group had been set up to try and block the erection of 326 homes at Coombes Farm in Stambridge. Well in November, Rochford Council unanimously rejected the plans - from the Colonnade Group - at a meeting.

It all suggested a victory for the local campaign - that was until the developers lodged an appeal with the Government's planning inspectorate last week.

This now means a new battle for organisers of RACE - Residents Against Coombe Farm Expansion. Speaking to Longpier.com, leader of the group James Bowker told Longpier.com:

"The developers, Colonnade LLP said they would listen to what local people had to say and we were hoping that 300 objection letters had sent an emphatic message along with the packed meeting halls along the way".

"The appeal from Colonnade means we will be stepping up our fight for this much loved green land."

At the time of the application, Colonnade told longpier.com:

"... the site has the potential to provide the kind of modestly scaled, organic town extension that would be the right fit for Rochford. Coombes Farm could help to deliver on local housing targets by providing good quality family homes with gardens, parking and places for children to play".

Rochford Council rejected the plans for four reasons. One - they were in the green belt. Two - the area is close to an internationally-recognised wildlife site. Three - parts were within flood areas. Four - because of the nearby public safety zone for Southend Airport. Anyone wishing to comment on the appeal has until January 27.

More details on the residents' fight can be found here

FESTIVE: Your Southend area snow pics

2009-12-18T13:50:00.014Z

Up to 15cm of snow fell on Thursday night as the Southend area suffered its worst blizzard for many years. On Friday, almost 30 schools were shut. It did, however, make for some beautiful photographs. Many readers of Longpier.com have been sending in their pics from the past few days - and if you'd like yours to be posted on the site then email longpier@gmail.com -

Send us your pics - longpier@gmail.com

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Snow pics courtesy top to bottom (@ from Twitter):
Natalie, Southend

@nikkibond Nikki Bond, Southchurch
Richard Gerreli, Leigh on Sea
Janet Raynor, Westcliff on Sea
@grounded_dreams Si Andrews, Chalkwell Park
@andersonwarwick Paul Anderson, Southend

@steverobbo Steve Robinson, Southend High Street
Southend Borough Council webcam

@paulmonkey Paul Taylor, Shoeburyness

@amiepamie (Amie Walters), Leigh

@tailzer, Southend

@dockbusters Jamie Roberts, Southend area

@iansanders Ian Sanders, Leigh

@dfpatten Daniel Patten

@stuartbyford Stuart Byford, Southend

Southend Borough Council webcam

Fiori Florist - Dave Grimes, Leigh on Sea
Jo Curtis, Leigh on Sea

Beach, Ian Sanders
@campsaz Sarah, Shoeburyness
@cardiacs Garry Shrimpton, Rochford Station 7.15am
@grounded_dreams Si Andrews, Chalkwell Park
Fred McLean Southend

WIN: Gifts for Southend area kids

2009-12-17T10:29:00.006Z

Do you know of a child in the Southend area who would appreciate a small gift this Christmas? Perhaps they're a little less fortunate than yourself, perhaps they have done something amazing this year or perhaps they're facing a difficult festive period due to circumstances beyond their control.

If you know of a child, aged between 5-14, who would appreciate a wrapped present, then get in touch with us here at Longpier.com

In each of the two parcels will be a remote controlled helicopter and a selection of small items such as balloons etc. The parcels are worth around £40 each.

To be entered into the draw to help brighten a life this Christmas, all you have to do is tell us who you're nominating, their location and why they deserve the special present this year.

Send your entries to longpier@gmail.com by 0001 on 22nd December. We'll then contact the winners and arrange delivery before the big day itself (probably 24th).

Good luck and here's to making a difference in YOUR local area.

FESTIVE: WIN FREE Graze boxes

2009-12-17T00:10:00.005Z

Here at Longpier.com, we're feeling festive and what better way to start the Christmas and New Year period than with a giveaway.

We've got TWO FREE yummy Graze boxes to give away to TWO lucky readers...four in total.

They're full of fresh fruit, dried fruit and nuts, and they're delivered straight to your home.

To win the vouchers all you have to do is answer this simple question:

Q: Which ex-Southend United striker scored his first Championship hat-trick last weekend?

Send your answers to longpier@gmail.com - we'll pick two winners on 23rd December, and send you the vouchers.

Good luck!

FESTIVE: "Last train" info for Southend area

2009-12-15T16:57:00.007Z

There's good news for New Year's Eve revellers who are planning on heading back to the Southend area after a night out in London. c2c's last train departs at the very respectable time of 0210 on New Year's Day.

And if you're planning a trip over the next couple of weeks, here's a handy guide to those last trains you really cannot miss.

XMAS EVE

SOUTHEND BOUND

Last DIRECT train from Fenchurch Street - Shoeburyness leaves at 2200

Last DIRECT train from Liverpool Street - Southend Victoria leaves at at 2134

LONDON BOUND

Last DIRECT train from Shoeburyness - Fenchurch Street leaves at 2020, arrives at 2126

Last DIRECT train from Southend Victoria - Liverpool Street leaves at 2026, arrives at 2122

CHRISTMAS DAY & BOXING DAY

No trains on c2c or National Express East Anglia except for Stansted Express services

NEW YEAR'S EVE

SOUTHEND BOUND

Last DIRECT train from Fenchurch Street - Shoeburyness leaves at 0210, arrives 0338

Last DIRECT train from Stratford - Southend Victoria leaves at 0126, arrives 0240 (engineering work at Liverpool Street - no trains)

LONDON BOUND

Last DIRECT train from Shoeburyness - Fenchurch Street leaves at 2305, arrives at 0018

Last DIRECT train from Southend Victoria - Liverpool Street leaves at 2026, arrives at 2122

NEW YEAR'S DAY

Sunday service operates on both services in and out of Southend area

For full information on train services over the festive period then click:
HERE FOR c2c

HERE FOR National Express East Anglia

Tragic deaths of Rochford couple

2009-12-15T14:03:00.004Z

A man from Rochford is thought to have committed suicide after shooting his wife who was suffering from multiple sclerosis.

The couple, named locally as Bill and Pam Edgar from Shopland Road were found dead yesterday (14th Dec).

Police discovered the body of 81-year-old Mrs Edgar at her home address after being called by a neighbour.

A short time later, retired farmer Mr Edgar, 78, was found dead in a deep water lake on nearby private land.

Essex Police said:

"At this time detectives are not treating his death as suspicious and are not looking for anyone else in connection with the woman's death. However, they are undertaking a full investigation."

Reports said Mr Edgar threw himself into water after taking a dinghy out into the middle of the lake.

Friends told reporters that the couple could not bear to be apart after learning Mrs Edgar did not have long to live.

Stuart Cordell, chairman of the South East Essex Branch of the Multiple Sclerosis Society, paid tribute to the pensioners.

"They were an absolutely lovely couple who will be missed," he said.

"Whenever they did anything to help the branch, they wouldn't want to publicise what they had done.

"Their deaths will come as a huge shock to members of the branch."

It is understood Mrs Edgar, a wheelchair user, had suffered from multiple sclerosis for several years and her condition had deteriorated recently.

EXPOSURE exhibition at Southend's TAP

2009-12-14T11:35:00.004Z

A brand new exhibition of works from twelve artists is being shown at Southend's TAP gallery on North Road in Southend.

The 'EXPOSURE' selection is being curated by Michaela Freeman - who's part of arts group Idea13 and CoExist.

Here's some info about the artists and their work - the exhibition ends on December 20th.

Millie Burton’s Home Improvements consist of a seemingly still film and photographs of unwanted and discarded everyday objects, inspired by a quote by Jonathan Chapman, ‘waste is a symptom of expired empathy, a kind of failed relationship that leads to the dumping of one by the other’.

Revisiting her former homes is Adela Bernatikova, and through the use of double exposure, she combines the past and the present, inspecting her emotions and memories.

The Susan Truseler’s series In The Woods uses objects from her family home as props, and presents the forest as alluring, mystical, but sinister at the same time. Further into the realm of the imaginary, Ruth Naylor collects and recreates dreams, hanging them on tree branches, because a tree is ‘a dream within itself, beautiful and mysterious’. Lyndsay Martin’s Edge of Love is a personal body of work based around the emotions following a breakdown of a relationship.

Victoria J Dean’s Travelling Landscapes series is a ‘poetic depiction of our perceptions of places’ we pass by in transit. Kate Peters’ pictures from the States are frozen temporary constellations in urban environments, ‘suspended narratives where reality has created its own fiction’. Also playing with the trespass between the reality and fiction line is Tina Hage who deploys contemporary photojournalistic and topical imagery from newspapers and the internet to re-enact found crowd scenes.

Other Madonnas by Ruby Wallis each depict a pair of mother and daughter, the tensions and complexity of their relationship. Lucia Pizzani, on the other hand, uses her own body to relate it to an enclosed space, deconstructing it with a mirrored image to the point where it becomes almost abstract.

Theo Tagholm’s video The Persistence of Vision is made with camera stills which gives it a dreamy quality whilst Nora Razian’s piece is about the process of photography itself, not demystifying it, quite the opposite. Tim Skinner’s first public screening of his latest film 12:5 is accompanied by his earlier photographs of sound-disturbed water.

Southend student scoops £4k prize

2009-12-10T19:25:00.005Z

A design student studying at the University of Essex in Southend, is celebrating after picking up a £4,000 grant.

Toni Roberts, who's 20, is working towards a Graphic Design degree. She picked up the award from multi-national car manufacturers Fiat for her fantastic designs and artwork.

The company's bursary scheme was set up in 1996 to help support the children of Fiat Group employees. Toni's Dad Justin works at the Basildon New Holland plant - home for so many years of course, to Ford tractors.

On receiving her bursary in a swanky do at Pall Mall in London, Toni - from Canvey - told longpier.com:

"I hope to put some of the money towards paying for a place on a book-binding course, and possibly getting a computer upgrade – my current one is too slow to run decent graphic design software."

And what about in five years time?

"With a master's degree suffixed to my name, a mortgage to pay for, and a dog to keep me company. If I was to push the boat out, I'd actually like to see myself working for Penguin books."

Richard Lambert, Director-General of the Confederation of British Industry gave the keynote speech before handing the students their awards. He said:

"With so much competition for jobs, further education has become essential for young people to pursue. The commitment and support Fiat Group offers its employees offspring is something that all large businesses should look to follow."

You can check out Toni's website here and her blog here

EXCLUSIVE: Launch of 'Longpier Lectures'

2009-12-10T11:54:00.005Z

Longpier.com is always thinking of ways to enrich the lives of people in Southend and surrounding areas, and today we're proud to announce our latest idea.

How would you like the chance to quiz your favourite local celebrity? If you could ask a question of the leader of Southend Council, what would it be? Would you like to hear from the unsung people of the borough, who work tirelessly to improve the life of others? What would you say to influential local businessmen or leading academics? What drives our talented artists and what inspires our brilliant comedians?

Today, we're launching the 'Longpier Lectures' - a series of Q&A events with fantastic people, all of whom, live and work - or have a connection - in our borough.

The idea is in its embroynic stage and we're looking for everyone to have their say on who they'd like to see and talk to, and where the lectures should be held. Should the events be free - or would you pay to see someone in a great venue? Should they be in the evening or at the weekend?

Below is a list of people we'd like to see at the 'Longpier Lectures' - please add to this list by leaving a comment below or at the Discuss Southend forum. We must stress we have not approached any of the individuals yet.

Although we can make the calls to agents and fix up a venue, it's really up to you - the people of the borough of Southend and surrounding areas - to ensure this happens. So let us know your thoughts and ideas and let's see if we can make this happen in 2010.

POSSIBLE PEOPLE:

Russell Kane - comedian
Colette Bailey - METAL
Phill Jupitus - comedian/actor
Helen Mirren - actress
Philip Miller - businessman
Ian Sanders - author
Nigel Havens - businessman
Terry Alderton - comedian
Nigel Holdcroft - Southend Leader
The Horrors - band
Get Cape, Wear Cape, Fly - band
Dave Brown - Mighty Boosh member
Phil Cornwell - impressionist
Rachel Riley - presenter
Dominic Littlewood - presenter
Steve Tilson - football manager
James Bourne - musician
Lee Mead - actor

POSSIBLE VENUES:

METAL, Chalkwell Hall

TAP, Southend

Roots Hall, Southend

End of the Pier, Southend

Garons Park, Southend

Royal Hotel, Southend

Civic Centre, Southend

The Peterboat, Old Leigh

LEAVE YOUR THOUGHTS BELOW

Westcliff man jailed over unpaid taxes

2009-12-10T10:11:00.003Z

A man from Westcliff, who failed to pay outstanding business rates and council tax, has been jailed for 90 days.

Farid Harrasy, who owed the council almost £6,100, appeared before magistrates in the town after he defaulted on a suspended committal order imposed in February this year.

He was jailed over business rates due on a shop he rented in London Road, Southend, and council tax on a previous address in Westcliff-on-Sea.

Mr Harrasy, from Argyll Road, Westcliff, who had been given previous opportunities to pay, also had outstanding court fines for which he received a further term of imprisonment.

Cllr Andrew Moring, from the council's Corporate Support Services, said he hoped the court’s punishment would act as a deterrent to defaulters, telling Longpier.com

“The court’s decision sends out a strong message to business rates and council tax defaulters.

“The council will always try to assist those having genuine difficulty in making payment.

“But for those who seek to avoid payment or consistently fail to keep to payment arrangements imprisonment remains a real possibility.”

The council's urging anyone struggling to meet their business rates or council tax commitments to contact them on 01702-215001 to seek advice and guidance.

Southend "good" despite poverty concerns

2009-12-09T00:01:00.002Z

How well would you rate Southend Council in providing value-for-money services such as recycling, crime reduction, affordable housing and the upkeep of the local environment?

Well, according to a comprehensive assessment, Southend is doing a good job in comparison with other English councils.

It is ‘performing well’, according to the Audit Commission’s 2009 ‘Oneplace’ report, receiving a score of 3 out of 4.

But it has to do more to reduce the fear of crime and reduce the number of children living in poverty - which is much higher than the national average. The report also suggests further work should go into helping young people in the area, between the ages of 11-16, with special needs. Provision at present means this group do not achieve as well as they should. The report also notes that mortality rates differ by up to eight years in different parts of the borough.

The assessment is the most wide-ranging and thorough that councils are subjected to annually, and is based on the opinion of inspectors and feedback from local residents.

The report also praised the work of Southend Together - the council’s strategic partnership with local police, fire service, NHS bodies and the business, voluntary and community sectors.

Southend and its partners were singled out for praise by Oneplace for:

• having more childminders, nurseries, primary schools and sixth forms with a ‘good’ or ‘outstanding’ OFSTED rating than the rest of England

• the ambitious long-term plans to regenerate the town, including the Victoria Gateway and City Beach schemes

• achieving a steady reduction in crime over the last six years with a five per cent reduction in the last year alone

• the council’s ability to access £58m of Decent Homes funding through its partner agency South Essex Homes

• obtaining five green flags for the town’s parks and open spaces – two more than it had two years ago

• continuing to improve its household waste recycling rate to 40 per cent, up from 28 per cent in 2006 and

• a diverse and imaginative events programme - including the internationally renowned Air Festival - and pioneering arts project in association with Metal at Chalkwell Park.

Ian Davidson, Oneplace spokesperson for Southend-on-Sea, says:

“Crime rates are relatively low and Southend is doing better than most similar areas in reducing crime but more needs to be done to reduce the fear of crime. But the number of children living in poverty is high and children and young people with special educational needs achieve poorly between the ages of 11 and 16.

Partners are working together to improve the health of people in Southend but life expectancy varies by up to eight years between different areas of the borough.”

But overall, leader of the council, Nigel Holdcroft was happy with the findings:

“This assessment is great news as it reflects our determination to create a better
Southend by delivering excellent public services to everyone in the borough. This will spur us on even further towards our goal of providing essential services that matter to our residents and businesses in the most cost-effective manner possible.”

Over to you...are you happy with the level of services you receive in Southend?

Based on the study, what would you score Southend out of four?
Are you surprised by the mortality findings?
Are you proud to live in a borough that compares favourably with others?

Leave a comment below or go to the sarfend.co.uk forum and have your say.

OFSTED praises Southend's system

2009-12-09T00:00:00.001Z

Southend’s services for children and young people are “performing well” overall, according to OFSTED’s latest annual inspection. The news comes just a week after the government body put a secondary school in Southend into "special measures", following a damning report.

The latest borough-wide assessment takes account of all the council’s services for children and young people including child-minding, nurseries, schools, colleges, Connexions, aspects of public health, children’s social care and youth offending.

OFSTED singled out Southend for particular praise for reducing the teenage pregnancy rate in the borough and its examination results for 16-year-olds.

Paul Greenhalgh, Southend Council’s Corporate Director of Children and Learning, gave a somewhat generic statement to longpier.com:

“I am delighted that our good performance in last year’s assessment of children’s services has continued this year. This shows how well our children and young people achieve.”

But just seven days ago, Cecil Jones College - in the town - was slammed by an OFSTED report which rated the school as "inadequate for its overall effectiveness and capacity to change for the better". The National Union of Teachers and staff at the school criticised the findings and raised concerns about certain aspects of the inspection.

DISCUSS SOUTHEND

What's your experience of being a young person in Southend?
Do you feel you're getting the right education? Or do you feel there is room for improvement in services and provisions?
Maybe you're a parent - what's your view?

Leave a comment here or discuss it on the sarfend.co.uk forum.

Finding long lost friends from Southend

2009-12-08T16:06:00.001Z

Longpier.com and Sarfend.co.uk have launched a fantastic new forum and information portal for finding long lost relatives and friends in Southend and surrounding areas.

The forum aims to help track down people from Southend, perhaps as part of family tree research, or to reconnect with friends, family or former work colleagues, who are just unavailable through the likes of Facebook, Twitter, Bebo or MySpace.

The "Tracing Down Southenders" section of the site is one of the busiest on "Discuss Southend" - a joint initiative by this site and Pete Sipple from Sarfend.co.uk.

If you haven't yet registered, then click here, sign up and get searching.

Southend Sea-Life boss demands answers

2009-12-07T23:23:00.008Z

The boss of Southend's Sea-Life Adventure is demanding answers from a massive shipping company as to whether a new 'Superport' will go ahead.

Philip Miller - who also owns Adventure Island and Southend Radio - wants answers from DP World. The company wants to build a massive container port near the Coryton oil refinery (nr Stanford-le-Hope), but the future of the project has been thrown into doubt due to the troubled economic situation in the United Arab Emirates. DP World relies on funding from its parent company Dubai World - which is in £3bn worth of debt.

DP World London estimates the port would handle 3.5 million containers a year and create 12,000 jobs, if it goes ahead.

A massive dredging operation, designed to make the Estuary deeper in readiness for the huge container ships that will use the new port, had been due to get underway late this, or early next, year. Experts say that could spell disaster for marine life and the local fishing economy.

Mr. Miller told longpier.com

“This has been like a sword of Damocles hanging over our heads for months now - waiting for the dredging to start and then the constant delays. Now it’s going to be dragged out even more due with what’s happening in Dubai. It’s grossly unfair to keep those of us whose livelihoods could be ruined by this project, without any information.”

“The tanks in Sea-Life Adventure are filled with water pumped directly from the neighbouring Estuary. If the water quality is too badly affected once this dredging starts, it could literally end up killing all our fish and the other animals we keep. There is also a possibility that the dredging will affect the beaches, meaning they cannot be used – which could have a catastrophic effect on tourism for Southend. The local fishing industry will be ruined as well.” he said.

“I shudder to think what would have happened if they’d started the work and this financial crisis had occurred halfway through – would they have just abandoned it, and left an ecological disaster in the Thames Estuary? This has gone on for far too long now, and I am calling on DP World to make a decision once and for all.”

Xavier Woodward - spokesman for DP World - said the port remains "under review", while a number of financing options were considered.

Back in November, DP World officials told the Thurrock Gazette dredging activity had already been safely carried out in the Thames Estuary in the past and a full Environmental Impact Assessment was carried out as part of the public inquiry into London Gateway in 2003.

£52,000 coming Southend's way

2009-12-04T12:34:00.003Z

Southend has received £52,000 to spruce up its town centre, ahead of Christmas.

The grant is one of 50 given out by the government and will allow the council to find new uses for empty shops - such as a nativity scene or a showroom for local artists. One such empty store expected to be targeted is the old Woolworths premises on the High Street.

Communities Secretary John Denham said:

"We know that the downturn has really hurt some English high streets, especially where there was already high deprivation.

"But the real help we are giving now is making a difference in keeping town centres vibrant.

"This money will mean councils can put their creative ideas to work and transform those boarded-up eyesores into attractions that bring the shoppers back to the high street."

Picture courtesy: DBullock on Flickr

Southend Airport plans split opinion

2009-12-04T10:53:00.003Z

The planned expansion of Southend Airport is continuing to split opinion in the local area. Residents have until 10th December to submit comments on the owners' application to extend the runway and thereby facilitate more flights in and out of the airport.

Within the past couple of weeks, longpier.com has received a number of separate press releases on behalf of influential businesses, urging the public to back the plans. Charged with showing the positive elements of the scheme, new PR firm Brera London has been incredibly active in sending media statements on behalf of estate agents, ex police chiefs, hotels and big employers.

The Roslin Hotel is the latest business to throw its weight behind the plans. Jacqui Harris, Sales and Marketing Manager said

“Of course, the development of Southend Airport will be fantastic for allowing local people to travel abroad on holiday or business more easily than before, and in return especially important for those of us involved in the leisure and tourism industry here in South Essex. The airport will bring much needed new visitors and revenue. The town’s economy is heavily interwoven with tourism and a fully functioning passenger airport will provide a major boost to that relationship.”

The various groups who object may be less media savvy perhaps, but they're certainly not the silent majority. On 17th November, Leigh Town Council voted to object the airport's plans, as the proposed flight path would - they claim - result in more noise over that part of the borough. Only yesterday (3rd Dec) a senior governor at Blenheim Primary School in Leigh said the facility may have to close if plans were approved, claiming the noise above would be too persistent to teach. The group SEAN - Stop Airport Expansion Now - is gaining support every day, and is actively campaigning against the plans via its up-to-date website and regular meetings. Reacting to the Roslin Hotel's comments, chairperson for SEAN, Kiti Theobald, told the Echo:

“The Roslin is a beautiful hotel, it’s really lovely, but it’s got nothing to do with the airport. If the owners of the hotel lived under the flightpath, they might think differently.”

The Eddie Stobart transport group bought Southend Airport back in November 2008 for £21m. Plans to expand the runway, build a new train station, a new control tower and a hotel were soon drawn up. Local residents were sent a Joint Area Action Plan consultation document in the post and Southend and Rochford councils asked for feedback.

Back in October, Longpier.com revealed the objectors had scored a partial victory, when the number of planned night flights were severely reduced by the council.

What do you think?

Is the airport expansion a positive move for the area?
Or will it have a negative and lasting impact on the people of Southend?

Leave your comments below or head on over to the all new Sarfend/Longpier forum right here.

Christmas music in Southend area

2009-12-02T10:22:00.006Z

Having trouble getting in the festive spirit? Are you not "feeling" it yet this year? Do you need motivation to buy those presents?

If the answer's yes, then Southend is offering Christmas concerts in the run up to the big day. There have already been concerts featuring the town's Boys and Girls' choirs - now it's over to the adults.

On Sunday 20th December, the Southend Bandstand in Priory Park will host “Carols in the Park” - a Community Carol Concert for all the family. This special event marks the official 2012 Olympic Day on the 20th day of the 12th month. It is supported by Southend’s Legacy 2012.

The hour-long concert starts at 2pm and will feature music performed by The Southend Band with community carol singers. The concert is free and some seating is provided.

Southend Council’s head of culture, Councillor Derek Jarvis told longpier.com

“We are very proud of our vibrant musical talent in Southend. We hope as many people as possible will be able to come along and support one or all of these forthcoming events, for a really resounding start to the Christmas celebrations.”

Southend parent jailed for child's truancy

2009-12-02T10:14:00.003Z

A Southend parent has begun a 28 day prison sentence for failing to ensure their child attended secondary school.

The parent, who cannot be identified for legal reasons, pleaded guilty and was jailed by Southend Magistrates on Monday 30th November after a third appearance in court for the same offence in the past 20 months. Between Monday 10th November 2008 and Friday 3rd April 2009 their child had attended just 12 school sessions out of a possible 175.

Under Section 444 of the Education Act 1996 parents have a legal duty to ensure their children regularly attend the school at which they are registered.

In the past year, the parents of 44 children have appeared in court for these issues, and the Council has issued seven Fixed Penalty Notices for offences related to non school attendance.

A parent/carer may be summoned to appear before the local magistrate, for failing to ensure their child’s regular attendance at school.

Head of Southend Council's Children and Learninig section Roger Hadley told longpier.com:

“It is imperative that children attend school, and we will do everything in our
power to try to ensure that they do.

“Absence from school increases the likelihood that pupils will leave school without qualifications. It can also lead to an increased risk of harm or injury for children, or their potential involvement in criminal or anti-social behaviour. For this reason tackling persistent absence has been a major national and local priority in recent years.”

Picture posed by actor

Southend Pier closed to public

2009-12-01T10:58:00.002Z

BREAKING NEWS

Southend's iconic pier has been closed to the public because offices at the shore end have been damaged by water.

Electrical supplies at the offices have been affected and engineers are working to resolve the problem.

It's expected the pier will re-open by Thursday.

Southend's 'Use It or Lose It' campaign

2009-11-28T15:58:00.006Z

EXCLUSIVE

A groundbreaking new initiative is being set up to encourage people living in Southend and surrounding areas to buy goods and use services on their doorstep, instead of travelling out of the borough.

The 'Use It or Lose It' campaign is being spearheaded by Nigel Havens - the Managing Director of Havens department store on Hamlet Court Road in Westcliff.

Nigel's worried that during the recession, a number of well established local firms have either gone bankrupt or scaled back their business or services to the detriment of their employees and customers. He wants to stem the flow of closures and encourage customers back to their local high streets and stores.

So far Nigel's been in touch with a number of businesses in Westcliff, Southend and Thorpe Bay and, together, they're formulating a plan to launch the "Use It or Lose It" campaign next year. Southend Council is also likely to be involved.

"Southend has some fantastic and well established businesses", Nigel tells me.

"We all have a responsibility to the local economy. If shops and services continue to close at the rate we've seen over the past couple of years, then it will be to the detriment of everybody. We want to promote and encourage what's available locally. Collectively, we can encourage people back to the likes of Hamlet Court Road or Southend town centre and make them aware of what's on their doorstep".

Of course price and competition are the main factors that drive people away from the area. And surely people would be crazy to use their local TV or furniture store if the goods could be picked up cheaper 20 miles down the road?

Nigel says it's a myth that local suppliers often charge more for the same goods compared to their bigger, multi-national competitors:

"I think it's a misconception. I suspect local businesses aren't more expensive than their Lakeside or Bluewater competitors. We all have to give our firms a chance to be competitive. Not only can they compete, but many - like ourselves - offer fantastic customer and after-sales service. They are often independent, and offer direct lines to the owners. Within reason we always try to match or better what other department stores are offering and many other local stores do the same".

Havens itself has been through a "challenging period" in terms of shop sales, but has seen its online profits rocket through the recession, as people from across the world log on and buy a range of gifts from their newly-improved website. The shop has also been through a mini-transformation - with ladies fashion being sold off and shipped out and gifts and homeware taking the space.

It's not just local firms Nigel wants to protect - arts and culture venues also fall under the initiatives' umbrella. Places like the Palace Theatre - under threat until recently - is a "huge community resource", according to Nigel. Swimming pools, parks, art galleries, the pier are all there to be used and should be promoted much more.

"Sometimes we don't realise what a fantastic area we live in", Nigel says.

"It's culturally diverse and rich in heritage and tradition. We have some brilliant businesses, venues and people living in the borough and should do more to encourage them to shine".

If you're a local business or venue and are interested in joining forces with the scheme, then call Nigel on 01702 342757 or email nigel@havens.co.uk

NEWS: Help shape Southend's culture bid

2009-11-27T10:30:00.006Z

How did you feel when Longpier.com broke the news that Southend would be bidding to become the first UK City of Culture in 2013? Did it spark your interest?

Well, if you were keen to find out more and get involved with the bid, then here's your chance.

The community's being invited to a special Cultural House Party at Chalkwell Hall in Chalkwell Park on Saturday 5th December.

This collective brainstorming day from is being organised by Arts organisation METAL, in partnership with Southend-on-Sea Borough Council. Anyone with an interest in helping shape the bid is welcome to drop in at any time between 11am and 4pm.

The bid includes outlining an ambitious and exciting cultural programme for 2013 to show how important culture is to the borough’s future.

Southend-on-Sea Borough Council’s Executive Councillor for Culture, Councillor Derek Jarvis told Longpier.com:

“Southend has a huge wealth of creative and dynamic talent so we really want to involve as many people as possible in preparing this bid.

“The Council together with METAL is very keen indeed to create a vivid picture of the current cultural climate, as well as a shared ambition for what can be achieved in 2013 and beyond.

“The winning city/town will become a focus for national attention in 2013 and could host high-profile media events including the Turner Prize, BBC Sports Personality of the Year, The Brits and the RIBA Stirling Prize as part of their year in the spotlight.”

Building on Liverpool's success as European Capital of Culture in 2008, the successful city or town would expect to see economic and social benefits, leaving a lasting legacy.

There will be free refreshments and activities that will get the creative juices flowing.

For more information, contact: Jane Wilkes at METAL on 01702 470700 or jane@metalculture.com

NEWS: Southend makes £1.2m from parking fines

2009-11-26T10:18:00.007Z

Traffic wardens in the borough of Southend dished out more than £1.2m worth of parking tickets in the past year.

The figures - released by the Taxpayers Alliance - reveal fines in the borough were actually down by almost £100,000 on the previous year.

For the tax year between 2007-8, the council made £1,305,940 whereas in 2008-9, it made£1,209,183 through fines.

Southend's figures are still pretty astounding. Nearby authorities and towns made significantly less revenue through fines. According to the figures, Basildon made £321,997; Castle Point £13,400; £251,000 went to Rochford, and £183,500 in Thurrock.

Southend Council has defended the results. Anna Waite - who's the councillor in charge of transport and planning told the Echo:

"You have got to take into consideration we are a seaside town.

“We get a lot of people coming into town who don’t know the area, and park where they shouldn’t.

“It is misleading to compare us to places where there are fewer restricted parking areas, as most of Southend has parking control."

Parking offenders pay £30 in Southend but that doubles if the money isn't received within 14 days. The council uses enforcement agency ACPOA, but receives all the money from the fines.

WHAT DO YOU THINK ABOUT THE FIGURES?
SHOULD SOUTHEND MAKE MORE PARKING SPACES AVAILABLE?

IS THIS A GOOD WAY OF RAISING REVENUE FOR THE AREA?

HAVE YOUR SAY ON THE NEW SARFEND/LONGPIER FORUM or LEAVE A COMMENT BELOW.