FEATURE
Spotlight on
SOUTHEND-ON-SEA
S
outhend-on-Sea still gets tagged as the tacky, cheap
haven for East-enders that’s more mud flats than
tropical blue seas. But like other seaside towns
across the island, it carries the same much-loved
memories for its long-time visitors and residents - myself
included.
Even I find myself telling sceptical friends - born and
raised close to or within the town that yes, it actually
quite enjoyable - embrace it for what it is. One friend
mentioned recently how her brother had come to visit
and wanted to go to the seafront, she was unsure but
ended up “actually quite enjoying it”.
The fact it is underrated and overlooked is maybe part
of why it’s so cherished – yes, I raise some eyebrows with
my enthusiasm for the muddy shores and the planted
palm trees next to the casino, but below the grit and
unfortunate deprivation lies a thriving arts scene.
It is witnessing some rejuvenation, with an influx of
artists looking for more affordable space outside of
London. Ciara Phipps, Assistant Curator of Social
History at Southend Museum also feels they are
“certainly experiencing a re-invigoration of love for
Southend and the seafront.” It has been benefiting
from government funding that aims to increase visits to
seaside resorts, particularly within the museum and
cultural sector, in a bid to move money away from the
capital city. Southend Museum and Beecroft Art Gallery
earlier this year held an exhibition on the classic
fashion label Biba (check out our feature and interview
with the Biba founder in this same issue) and also the
regeneration of its pleasure pier - the world’s longest
and which has been host to a Jamie Oliver TV show
attracting celebrity guests. Another hidden gem is the
900 year-old Prittlewell Priory, originally home to