March 2022 has been an exceptional month for Southend-on-Sea and will go down in history as the borough received city status on 1st March. On this special day, the Southend Civic Centre was a buzz of activity with the arrival of the Royal Highnesses Prince of Wales and Duchess of Cornwall. They were there to declare the beach borough officially a city.
Being a city by the sea allows Southend to raise its profile nationally and further afield, maximise tourism, and generate more inward investment, which will help the local economy, people and businesses.
How Will Being a City Benefit Southend-On-Sea?
City status will turbocharge the town’s economy and encourage future investment. The town’s pier, tourism prospects, and thriving arts and culture community are highlighted as to why Southend stands out from the rest.
Southend welcomes approximately 6.4 million tourists every year, with numerous events including Southend Shakedown, Southend Carnival, Village Green, and the Estuary Festival. These numbers are set to skyrocket now it has city status.
But choose Southend? For a start, the new city is home to the world’s longest pier and is one of the best-known spots in Essex. Not only is it popular with holidaymakers, but it’s a fantastic hub for business travellers due to its proximity to Southend and London airports.
Choose Sorted Stay
At Sorted Stay, our properties in the city of Southend-on-Sea are carefully chosen to reflect the area’s relaxed vibe, with both studios and apartments offering high-quality facilities and some incredible views over the seascape and beyond.
Our fully equipped apartments and studios are all centrally located, giving you the best of both worlds; an escape from everyday life while surrounded by all the comforts and amenities to make your stay as enjoyable and comfortable as possible.
With nature reserves right on its doorstep and an intriguing blend of high streets and beaches, Southend has something for everyone. You can be sure of the quality of your stay and your overall comfort here with us at Sorted Stay.
How The City Came to Be: A Tribute to Sir David Amess
In addition, the late Sir David Amess’ family, councillors and officials from across the borough came together with local leaders to remember and pay tribute to Sir David Amess. His life, coupled with the fantastic work he carried out and his true love of Southend and its citizens, was palpable in the stories told by all involved.
The Prince of Wales spoke on Sir David’s tragic and senseless murder in 2021 and the appalling circumstances of his death. He hoped that today would bring some small comfort to his family and the citizens of Southend.
Sir David would have been immensely proud about the change to city stance, proud in the understanding of duty and his unfailing ambition to service his constituents and improve the lives of those that he represented. His Highness prayed that this new city would continue to go from strength to strength and honour the memory of Sir David Amess and his dedication to the community he loved. The award of city recognition was handed to his wife, Julia, during the ceremony on his behalf.
Time for a City Break
Pack your bags and come and enjoy all that this new city, Southend-on-Sea, has to offer. Spring has sprung, and summer is just around the corner, so come and relish in the city’s beauty. For cost-effective, affordable accommodation you won’t find elsewhere, book your next home away from home with Sorted Stay.