Strengths and Opportunities
7 miles of coastline
36 parks & 39 play areas
86% of businesses have ≤ 10 employees
Growth Sectors
digital, cultural, creative; health technology; manufacturing & engineering; tourism
7 million annual visitors
Southend Airport growth & Business Park expansion
Hub for culture and higher education
Low car ownership:
1 per household on average
9 rail lines & frequent bus services
16 conservation areas & 150 listed buildings
Expanding cycle network
99% of development over 20 years on brownfield land
Challenges
Rising housing unaffordability
Ageing and insufficient infrastructure
Shortage of affordable family homes & accommodation
Need for north-south connectivity & sustainable transport
Congestion on key routes during peak hours
Facilitate job growth & address low wage economy
Adapt to and mitigate climate change
Reimagining the City Centre & protect resort identity
Improve skills & provide local job opportunities
Address health inequalities & promote active travel
High urban density & scarce open space
Enhance the built and natural environment