To celebrate Her Majesty The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee in 2022, a city status competition has been announced and Southend deserves to finally be recognised for its brilliance. Sir David Amess is delighted to announce the launch of Southend’s City Status bid.

At their Cabinet meeting, Southend-on-Sea Borough Council unanimously voted to approve Southend’s desire to submit a bid. A Committee has been established to work with the Council and design the bid.

The official launch is taking place on Saturday 18 September and will be attended by Sir David Amess MP, James Duddridge MP, members of the Southend City Status Committee, Southend-on-Sea Borough Council representatives, The Mayor Cllr Margaret Borton and the Town Crier Keith Davidson.

Commenting on the launch, Sir David said “if there is any justice, and if this is a fair competition, then Southend will be successful in its bid to become a city. Why do I say that? Southend is unique and city status would provide long overdue recognition of what we have to offer. The longest pleasure pier in the world, a huge wealth of local talent in the arts and culture industries and a centre of educational excellence, are just a few of the things that make Southend special. I am absolutely delighted that our bid is being launched today led by the local authority and with our Town Crier encouraging residents to get behind the bid”.