Matt Hasdell

Fairy Bakes by Reanna, a home-based bake shed on Bellhouse Lane in Leigh, was reported to Southend Council over alleged planning-permission concerns. Owner Reanna Venn temporarily paused the business and feared she could face a £500 application fee and additional costs, but the council concluded that the shed was not breaching regulations. Venn said she wished the complainant would speak to her directly and explained that the business provides vital income alongside her unpredictable performing work.

Around seven motorhomes and caravans reportedly entered Lubbins Car Park on Canvey Island and formed an unauthorised encampment after allegedly breaking the height-restriction barrier. Castle Point Council, working with Essex County Council’s Essex County Traveller Unit, served a notice requiring the group to leave and warned that legal proceedings could follow if they did not comply. Local businesses described previous disruption from larger traveller groups but said the current encampment had caused little trouble so far.

Crowsheath Fishery has closed its nine-acre Crows Nest lake between Billericay and Wickford because drought has reduced water levels to the point that anglers could injure valuable carp. Joint leaseholder Nick Kearsey said the decision was made on both fish-welfare and business grounds, with some carp worth up to £5,000. The fishery has installed pumps to maintain oxygen levels, but its future operations depend on significant rainfall after a dry winter and prolonged hot weather. Other lakes at the venue remain open, although conditions across south Essex have already been linked to fish and wildlife deaths.

Labour MP Bayo Alaba has referred himself to the Labour Party for investigation over two COVID-era bounce-back loans taken out by one of his businesses. Reports said he attempted to close the business before repaying one loan, but Alaba denies trying to avoid his obligations and says both loans are being repaid in full by the end of the year. The Labour whip has been suspended as a precaution while the investigation proceeds, and Conservative shadow minister Mike Wood has called for further answers.

Twenty-seven Southend councillors from Reform UK, Conservative, Green and independent groups are seeking an emergency full council meeting before the city’s draft local plan is published. The plan proposes 14,700 homes by 2045, including 4,900 between Shoebury and Rochford, prompting concerns about green belt loss and the timing of a planning committee decision. Council leader Daniel Cowan says statutory deadlines require applications to be considered promptly and warns that delay could increase risks for the council and taxpayers. Council officials argue that an up-to-date plan would provide greater certainty for roads, schools, healthcare and affordable housing while limiting speculative development.

Martin Grant Homes has cleared the final planning hurdles for a development of up to 250 homes on former green belt land north of Southend Road in Wickford. The scheme requires contributions of £325,000 for local bus services and £26,717 for secondary education, and no more than 50 homes may be occupied until a nearby Southend railway level crossing is permanently closed. The developer says the project will create a high-quality neighbourhood and preserve two World War II pillboxes, but local critics, including Wickford Independents leader Eunice Brockman, warn that additional traffic could worsen already severe congestion. Other housing proposals in Crays Hill and off Station Road are also facing planning appeals.

Castle Point Council has approved plans to convert the former Briarswood weight-management clinic on Canvey Island into a Jewish library and small place of worship. The facility will contain about 600 books, operate from 10am to 10pm for community members, and include a single-storey entrance extension and new toilets. Residents were divided, with objections focused on noise, parking, activity levels and privacy, while supporters highlighted the benefits for local Jewish residents, particularly older and less mobile people. The centre is expected to have fewer than 10 people on site at once, with most visitors living nearby, and worship services limited to Fridays, Saturdays and approximately 12 religious festivals annually.

Zara Thornberry has opened Casimir, a wellbeing-focused café on Market Road near Wickford Station, inspired by the company name she registered after her father’s death. The café opens at 6am to serve commuters and families, offering sugar- and syrup-free drinks, coffee and juices. Thornberry aims to provide affordable, independent alternatives to large chains, with plans to add acai bowls and homemade soup. Despite opening delays, the first weekend attracted strong customer interest, including a passing run club.

Residents of Boston Avenue near Southend Victoria railway station have launched a petition calling for daily street-warden patrols and 24-hour CCTV after reporting public drinking, fighting, littering, suspected drug dealing, dog fouling and other anti-social behaviour. Residents Lisa Bright, Fazila Taylor and Sher Ali describe feeling unsafe and frustrated, while Taylor also recounts a burglary at her home. Residents are due to meet councillors and police on August 20. Southend Council cabinet member Ron Woodley supports residents raising concerns and urges people to report incidents to the council or Essex Police.

A significant water leak has flooded parts of Archer Avenue in Southend, with water spreading onto the road and a grassy area toward Hamstel Road. Drivers, pedestrians and cyclists have been warned to take care. Confelicity member Lee Clarke reported the issue, and the Echo contacted Essex & Suffolk Water for comment.

A child’s body was found at an address in Kenway, Southend, after police responded to a welfare concern. Sophie Dean and James Thorpe have been charged with preventing a lawful and decent burial, while Thorpe also faces an obstruction charge. Both were remanded in custody after appearing at Southend Magistrates’ Court and are due to appear at Basildon Crown Court. Essex Police continue to investigate the circumstances of the death and have not announced any charges relating to its cause. Southend Council representative Ron Woodley urged the public not to speculate.

A motorcyclist suffered serious injuries after reportedly crashing into a lamppost near the Travellers Joy pub at the junction of Down Hall Road and London Road in Rayleigh, Essex. Multiple ambulance crews and an Essex and Herts Air Ambulance response car attended, and the injured man was taken to hospital. A police cordon remained at the scene.

Eight housing schemes comprising 1,874 homes across Rochford, Basildon and Castle Point are being taken to appeal, meaning the Planning Inspectorate rather than local councils will decide their futures. The appeals followed refusals, deferred decisions and missed statutory deadlines. Proposals include developments in Hawkwell, Vange, Rochford, Thundersley, Crays Hill, Billericay and Wickford. Residents and campaigners have raised concerns about green belt and countryside loss, traffic, healthcare, school capacity and wider infrastructure pressures. The disputes reflect tensions between local opposition to large developments and national pressure on councils to meet housing targets.

Around 4,000 fish and three eels were rescued from Cherry Orchard Jubilee Country Park lake in Rochford after drought left water levels dangerously low. Rochford Council, the Environment Agency and Park Lake Fisheries moved the animals to a holding lake, following a similar rescue the previous year. Councillors and MP Bayo Alaba called for a long-term solution, while the council and Environment Agency are working on permissions to upgrade a sluice and divert excess winter water into the lake before winter.

Spice Hut is opening a second Southend location at 160 High Street, replacing Buy and Sell Electronics Outlet. The halal fast-food restaurant, which serves fried chicken, burgers, doner and grilled food, will hold a grand opening on Saturday, August 8, offering customers a 50% discount. The chain began in Stepney Green in 2005 and now has more than 60 UK locations. Local reaction is mixed, with some welcoming a new business amid numerous empty shops while others say the High Street needs a different type of outlet.

More than 100 fish were rescued from Friars Park Lake in Shoebury after prolonged hot and dry weather caused water levels to fall sharply and left fish struggling for oxygen. Local volunteers transferred the remaining fish to a deeper back lake. Residents, including Lee Clark, linked the recurring problem to warmer, longer summers and called for a long-term solution. The Environment Agency said the lake was too shallow for it to add oxygen, while Southend Council said it would monitor the situation.

Plans for a new Aldi supermarket at Basildon’s Westgate Shopping Centre are progressing, with a signage application submitted after planning permission was granted in December. The store will occupy the former JD Sports and One Beyond units, combining entrances, adding a delivery bay and canopy, and replacing four accessible parking spaces with a larger pedestrian area. Basildon Council says the store should increase footfall and benefit other retailers and hospitality businesses, although an opening date has not been confirmed. The development forms part of wider regeneration plans that include partial demolition of the shopping centre, a 95-bed hotel and 97 supported-living flats.

A Lexus crashed into and severely damaged a garden wall near the junction of Marine Parade and Harley Street in Leigh-on-Sea. No injuries or arrests were reported, the vehicle was recovered, and Essex Police cordoned off the area while continuing its enquiries.

The Rose Restaurant on Southend-on-Sea’s Marine Parade, part of the seafront Golden Mile, has been placed on the market for around £650,000. The three-storey freehold property includes restaurant seating, a commercial kitchen, toilets and owner accommodation across approximately 2,500 square feet. Dedman Gray says the property is a rare opportunity because premises between Southend Pier and the Kursaal seldom come up for sale, and the restaurant has attracted strong interest, including an initial offer from established operators.

Hot, dry and drought conditions have caused severe fish deaths and low oxygen levels at lakes in south Essex, including Riverside Village Holiday Park on Wallasea Island. The Environment Agency says it is handling many fish rescues but warns that moving fish requires authorization and suitable enclosed water because of potential disease risks. Holiday park staff have been working with the agency for months but have not identified a suitable relocation site, while similar losses have reportedly occurred at other parks in Chelmsford and Basildon.

The Oysterfleet Hotel in Canvey has closed parts of its outdoor grounds bordering Canvey Lake because of suspected toxic blue-green algae, restricting alfresco dining during the peak summer season and threatening significant lost income. More than 20 birds and fish reportedly died in July, while South Essex Wildlife Hospital treated about 30 birds. Hotel manager Simon Mathews called for urgent action and said the business was seeking legal advice over financial and reputational damage. Castle Point Council says the immediate risk to people remains low but advises residents to keep children and dogs away from the water. The council is investigating fish relocation and dredging, subject to Environment Agency approval and ecological surveys.

A 40.7-mile cycle ride from London Stadium to The Peterboat in Leigh-on-Sea raised £17,763 for The Brain Tumour Charity. Shane Challenger organized the event to support his uncle Tony, who underwent surgery in March to remove a brain tumour after four months of headaches. Twenty-four relatives, friends and colleagues took part, while a related quiz night raised £1,600. The funds are expected to provide around 240 hours of support for people and families affected by brain tumours.

Residents have until Friday, August 7, to comment on Obsidian Strategic’s revised proposal for 910 homes at Foots Farm, east of Southend Road in Billericay. The scheme, reduced from an initial 1,100 homes after consultation, includes eight Gypsy and Traveller pitches, a 72-place nursery, a primary school, new access roads and walking and cycling routes. Obsidian says the development would create a new neighbourhood, enhance woodland and planting, and meet local housing needs. The Billericay Action Group argues that the estate would change the character of Great Burstead and South Green, increase congestion and car dependency, and place pressure on services, while raising concerns about the lack of a guaranteed school and GP provision. Construction could begin in 2027, with approximately 260 homes expected by 2030 and completion phased over around eight years.

Bella, a 10-year-old Chorkie belonging to Janet Slade, died after a larger dog allegedly attacked and violently shook her near the skatepark at Warrior Square in Southend. Police officers took Bella to a veterinary practice, but her injuries were too severe to save her and she was later put to sleep. Essex Police are investigating and have appealed for witnesses or video footage, while Slade claims the other dog was later seen off its lead in the park.

Hundreds of fish have reportedly died in a lake at Riverside Village Holiday Park on Wallasea Island near Canewdon, while others are struggling in increasingly shallow water. Residents attribute the die-off to falling water levels and are distressed by the continuing losses. Park manager Kim Wood said prolonged dry weather and drought are the main causes, while low oxygen levels, seasonal spawning and associated stress may also be contributing factors. The park says it has worked with the Environment Agency for several months, but relocating the fish would require permission and no suitable alternative waterway is available.

Roadworks and water and gas repairs on London Road, Southend Road, Runwell Road and other routes have caused severe daily congestion in Wickford, with residents reporting much longer journeys and traffic gridlock during afternoon rush hour. Councillor Eunice Brockman said a normally 10-minute journey took an hour and warned that emergency vehicles could struggle to pass, while resident Duncan English also criticized the disruption. Essex Highways said the works are essential to maintain and improve the road network and promised to monitor their impact, coordinate with contractors and utility companies, and complete them safely and efficiently.

Hockley Primary School in Rochford, Essex, is set to be demolished and replaced after significant amounts of RAAC forced its closure in 2023. Pupils are currently being taught in temporary classrooms. The Department for Education is managing plans for a new partly single-storey and partly two-storey school with classrooms, SEND facilities, a library, hall, kitchen, play areas, sensory gardens and additional parking. Pupil numbers will not increase, and the existing playing field will be restored after construction. MP Mark Francois supports the project but has urged authorities to minimize disruption and manage access safely for local residents.

Canvey Lake is experiencing a wildlife crisis, with at least 20 dead animals reported to Castle Point Council and the South Essex Wildlife Hospital treating around 30 sick or injured animals in July. Blue-green algae has been detected in the water and is believed to be contributing to the deaths, prompting warnings against contact with the lake and allowing pets or children near it. The council says the public risk is low, but acknowledges that hot, dry weather has worsened conditions and that fish cannot safely be moved during warmer months. A £1 million project funded by Castle Point Council and the Canvey Island Pride in Place Board is planned to improve water quality and protect wildlife.

A group living in at least five vans set up camp at Belfairs Park in Southend-on-Sea, arriving on a Tuesday afternoon. Southend Council officers engaged with the group and gave them 24 hours to leave, later confirming that the campers had departed. Councillor Stephen Aylen raised concerns about unauthorised camping and the risk of fires from barbecues and campfires. The council said it works with people living temporarily or permanently in vehicles when they occupy unsuitable locations.

Basildon Council rejected four major housing developments totaling 1,355 homes in Billericay, Vange and Wickford, citing green belt loss, traffic congestion, pressure on schools and services, and harm to local communities. Two schemes totaling 610 homes are subject to non-determination appeals and will be decided by the Planning Inspectorate. A further 71-home proposal in Crays Hill was deferred. The council supports the refusals, while the government’s housing targets and demand for a completed Local Plan could create pressure for as many as 28,000 homes in the borough.

Campaigners welcomed Basildon Council’s refusal of nearly 1,400 proposed homes across Billericay, Wickford and Vange, but warned that appeals could still threaten the Green Belt. Developers have appealed over the council’s failure to determine two applications on time, covering 310 homes off Laindon Road in Billericay and 300 homes off Station Road in Wickford. The Planning Inspectorate will decide the appeals. Residents raised concerns about biodiversity, wildlife corridors, agriculture and food security, while the Wickford scheme’s planning agent highlighted open space, retained woodland and more than £2.8 million in proposed contributions to local services.

A new 77-bed, three-storey care home is planned for Delaware House in Shoebury after the former care-home site was severely damaged by a suspected arson attack. Lovett Care has appointed Kori Construction Ltd to demolish the building and construct a facility offering residential, nursing and dementia care. Demolition is expected to take three to four months, construction around 18 months, and the home is scheduled to open in the second quarter of 2028, creating approximately 100 permanent local jobs. Southend Council approved the demolition after citing the building’s poor condition, rising costs and security problems, while Essex Police continue to seek information about the fire.

A police pursuit that began in Rayleigh and reached speeds above 100mph ended on Hovefields Avenue in Wickford. Witnesses reported seeing 18 Essex Police vehicles, a helicopter and a dark-coloured car being pursued, while police recovered cocaine, cannabis, ketamine and cash. A man in his 30s from Basildon was arrested on suspicion of dangerous driving, failing to stop, drug possession with intent to supply, drug-driving and motoring offences, and was released on bail pending further investigation.

Demolition has begun at Delaware House in Shoebury after the former care home was severely damaged in a suspected arson attack on June 6. The site was sold by Southend Council to Lovett Care Developments the previous day, and Kori Construction Ltd has been appointed to carry out the work. Four boys aged 12 to 14 were arrested and released under investigation, while police continue gathering evidence. The council had already approved plans to demolish the disused building, which had also housed a library and blood clinic, because of its deteriorating condition, security problems and rising maintenance costs.

Friars Park Lake in Shoebury has experienced sharply declining water levels during recent summers, leaving fish and other wildlife trapped in shallow, oxygen-poor water. Residents say the problem has recurred for three to four years and criticize Southend-on-Sea City Council for failing to take preventative action. The Environment Agency says the lake is the council's responsibility and cannot aerate the water because it is too shallow or relocate the fish because their health status is unknown. UK Lakes attributes worsening conditions partly to climate change and rising temperatures, while the council says it is monitoring the lake and working with the Environment Agency on its management.

Southend Council has written off £81,569 in business rates owed by Hobbycraft after insolvency proceedings involving companies operated by private equity firm Modella Capital. The firms accumulated £204,807.77 in liabilities, of which £19,485 was recovered and £103,754 remains outstanding. Green Party councillor Simon Gittus condemned the impact on local taxpayers and called for reforms to business-rate and insolvency rules, while finance cabinet member Paul Collins said the company voluntary arrangements were intended to preserve jobs, keep businesses open and improve the prospects of recovering money that might otherwise be lost in liquidation.

Essex’s first Youth Hub has opened at the Unity Centre in Basildon’s Eastgate Shopping Centre. A joint project between Signpost Basildon and the Department for Work and Pensions, the hub offers 16- to 24-year-olds career advice, mental-health support, cost-of-living guidance, training and help finding employment. Basildon Council, South Essex College and Unify are among the supporting partners. The centre will provide weekday appointments and drop-in sessions, with similar hubs planned for Southend and Rochford as part of the government’s £2.5 billion youth-unemployment investment.

Around 50 Travellers entered Langdon Hills Recreation Ground in Basildon after allegedly cutting through the park’s padlock with power tools. Basildon Council ordered them to leave by midday the following day and warned that remaining or returning within three months could result in a fine of up to £1,000. Council officers were monitoring the site, while the Essex County Traveller Unit managed the response. Councillor Kerry Smith raised concerns about environmental damage and the risk of fires during a heatwave, while the Travellers said they had not been disturbed and intended to leave for an event later in the week.

Around 50 Travellers entered Langdon Hills Recreation Ground in south Essex after cutting off an access padlock, reportedly using power tools. Basildon Council said it was taking action, monitoring the site and working with the Essex County Traveller Unit to issue directions requiring the group to leave. Councillor Kerry Smith raised concerns about damage and the heightened risk of fires because of dry conditions and forecast temperatures of up to 34°C. People at the site said they had not been disturbed by residents and intended to leave soon for an event elsewhere.

Basildon residents, businesses, community groups and young people are being asked to help decide how £40 million from the Government’s Pride in Place programme should be spent in Lee Chapel North, Laindon Central and Chalvedon. The consultation focuses on improving public spaces, community facilities, safety, opportunities and neighbourhood pride, with responses due by Friday. Independent neighbourhood boards will develop proposals based on local feedback, while Basildon Council acts as the programme’s accountable body.

Lake Meadows Pool in Billericay is undergoing a £100,000 refurbishment funded and managed by swim school First Strokes in cooperation with Basildon Council. The two-month project will upgrade the interior and exterior while keeping the centre open. Planned improvements include lane swimming, SEND-friendly sessions, home-education classes, discounts for eligible groups, an improved coffee shop, and facilities supporting Royal Life Saving Society training.

Basildon Council could begin partial demolition of the Westgate Shopping Centre as early as October to make way for a proposed 95-bed hotel, 97 supported-living flats, public-space improvements and additional retail and leisure uses. The council bought the site for £18.5 million in 2024 and is considering expanding the hotel scheme, with revised proposals expected before the cabinet in September. The project is expected to create up to 50 full-time equivalent jobs, while wider public consultation is planned for the coming months. A previously proposed 3,500-seat arena has been superseded amid debate over funding priorities.

Nineteen animals, including 14 wildfowl and four fish, have been found dead at Canvey Lake over 19 days amid high levels of toxic blue-green algae. Castle Point Council has warned visitors not to touch the water, keep children away, avoid feeding birds and keep dogs on leads. Residents and campaigners say the lake’s condition has deteriorated despite a £1 million improvement plan, funded jointly by the council and Canvey Island Pride in Place Board, prompting calls for urgent action.

A former two-storey Energie Fitness site near Southend Pier Hill has been sold after sitting empty for more than two years. The 5,928-square-foot property, listed at £750,000, was marketed by Dedman Gray and includes showers, toilets and changing facilities. Southend Council had hoped it would become a retail or entertainment venue, but its flexible usage means the new owner could pursue a range of purposes. The buyer is expected to be identified in the coming weeks.

The University of Essex is closing its Southend campus after more than 20 years, citing financial pressures and a lower student population. The decision has drawn strong opposition from staff, students, unions and local politicians, with around 400 jobs at risk, industrial action and criticism of the university’s handling of redundancies and proposed departmental cuts. Students are being supported in transferring to Colchester, while some staff will be redeployed and others made redundant. The campus will remain open through August and into mid-September for some students, with a final farewell gathering planned for July 31. The separate University Centre South Essex remains fully operational.

Plans by Manor Oak Homes to build 152 homes on green belt land north of Great Wheatley Road in Rayleigh have attracted 901 formal objections. Residents, the Wheatley Action Group, Rayleigh Town Council and MP Mark Francois cite traffic, loss of green belt, pressure on services, flooding, drainage, ecological damage and inadequate wastewater infrastructure. The developer says the scheme would provide 76 affordable homes, public open space, a play area, paths and green infrastructure. Rochford Council is still considering the application, with a decision expected from early September onwards.

Basildon Council paid £1 million to extend Morgan Sindall Property Services’ housing repairs contract for 12 months after plans to bring the work in-house failed to progress. The council said it lacked sufficient time to procure and implement an alternative before the existing contract expired, while current leader Andy Barnes warned that ending the arrangement without a replacement would have left tenants without a repairs provider. Barnes said an in-house model could be considered alongside a potential merger with Thurrock, but the council is currently seeking a replacement contractor. The decision comes as the government investigates the authority following serious social-housing performance concerns, including its worst-possible C4 rating.

Westcliff Italian restaurant Don Amici's is marking its 10th anniversary. Owner Alessandro Russo, who was born in Venice and raised in Milan, moved to London intending to become an English-language singer but built a career in restaurants, managing venues including the Hippodrome Club and Stringfellows before opening restaurants in Camden Town and Battersea. After returning to the UK, he settled in Southend-on-Sea and opened Don Amici's, which serves pasta and thin, crispy pizzas. Russo still occasionally performs for customers, and is offering complimentary limoncello as a thank-you during the anniversary celebrations.

Giggling Squid in Billericay reopened after a month-long refurbishment and launched a new menu, making the town the first location in the chain to trial it. The redesigned restaurant features floral décor and more private seating, while the menu serves dishes as they are ready rather than separating starters and mains. The reviewer praised the one-bite salmon, whole sea bass in green curry, duck confit with noodles, sides and chocolate mousse, as well as the efficient and friendly service. The restaurant was judged to offer a satisfying, varied and authentic Thai dining experience.

A fertiliser explosion at an industrial estate on Southend Road between East Hanningfield and Rettendon caused major damage to a nearby home, including blown-out patio and garage doors, roof damage and ceiling cracks. More than 100 firefighters and other emergency services attended as secondary fires spread to nearby fields and buildings. Essex Fire and Rescue declared a major incident, evacuated residents and advised the public to keep windows and doors closed, while officials said there was no wider risk to the public.

A major fire at an industrial estate on Southend Road near Rettendon began around 4:30pm and triggered an explosion that residents said sounded like gunfire. More than 100 firefighters and numerous ambulances, fire engines and police vehicles attended, while Essex Fire declared a major incident. Residents were evacuated, advised to keep doors and windows closed, and told to avoid the area as smoke spread across south Essex.

A collision between a car and a lorry on Cranes Farm Road in Basildon left the car damaged and facing the wrong direction near the Basildon Tractor Plant roundabout. Police attended but kept both sides of the road open, and further details are awaited from Essex Police.

A refurbished Giggling Squid restaurant in Billericay has reopened with redesigned interiors and the national launch of a new picture-led menu aimed at making Thai cuisine more accessible. Founder Pranee Laurillard highlighted the brand’s community focus, while staff noted the shift toward shared Thai-style dining. The restaurant aims to remain a popular fixture on the town’s High Street.

A 14-year-old girl from Stanford-le-Hope, Lola Rankin, has been diagnosed with leukaemia and is undergoing intensive treatment at University College Hospital in London. Her self-employed parents face financial strain as they support her through a long hospital stay, prompting a family friend to launch a fundraiser that has quickly received more than £4,000. The community response has been strong, offering significant support as the family focuses on Lola’s recovery.

A suspected arson attack severely damaged the Little Wild Tribe nature nursery in Hadleigh, prompting a large community-led cleanup and rebuilding effort. Co-founders Kelly Guthrie and Emma Baker described the destruction as heartbreaking but said they were overwhelmed by the extensive support from locals, tradespeople and childcare providers. Fire crews quickly contained the July 11 blaze, preventing further spread and protecting nearby animals. The community’s response resulted in a coordinated restoration effort dubbed Operation Rebuild.

A long‑standing Wickford roadside pub, the Dick Turpin, has been listed as under offer two years after closing, raising hopes among bikers and car enthusiasts that it could reopen in a similar role. Community members recall its significance as a meeting point and oppose earlier redevelopment proposals that were rejected. A Basildon councillor expressed support for retaining it as a pub or restaurant, citing its strategic location. The 1.28‑acre site was relisted for £950,000, featuring a large bar, restaurant space, outdoor areas and extensive parking.

A long-vacant care home in Hadleigh will undergo a £2.72 million refurbishment to create 19 self-contained temporary housing units for homeless residents. Castle Point Council, which purchased Abbeyfield House in January 2025, says the project will reduce reliance on out-of-borough placements and improve support for vulnerable households. Indecon Building Limited will begin work in early August, starting with roof replacement and scaffolding installation before interior renovations. The scheme will include accessible units funded in part by a Disabled Facilities Grant and follows similar initiatives in Canvey and Tarpots. Council officials describe the contractor’s appointment and construction start as key milestones for the project.

A community allotment in Hadleigh was vandalised on July 11, with structures smashed, facilities ransacked and an attempted fire reported. The damage forced cancellation of children’s sessions and volunteer activities. Essex Police confirmed the break‑in but currently have no further leads and will review the case if new information emerges. The incident occurred the same night a nearby nature nursery was severely damaged in a suspected arson attack. Local organisers appealed for volunteers to help repair the site and asked anyone with information to contact authorities.

A developer has submitted plans to build 116 homes on green belt land in Crays Hill between Billericay and Wickford, adding to a series of proposed developments across north Basildon. The scheme from Higgins Homes emphasizes affordable housing and community infrastructure contributions, citing Basildon Council’s inability to meet government housing targets. Local councillors have raised concerns about pressure on roads, schools and healthcare. Multiple nearby proposals, including developments of several hundred homes, continue to move through planning stages as debates over green belt use intensify.

Two men posing as Deliveroo drivers attempted to break into a home in Benfleet, causing significant distress to the victims. Essex Police are investigating and have asked the public not to share the Ring doorbell footage circulating online. The family emphasised the privacy concerns and uncertainty over the motive while thanking the community for support. Deliveroo confirmed no legitimate riders were in the area and noted branded gear can be acquired unofficially. Police urge anyone with information to come forward using the provided reference number.

A government review has been launched into Basildon Council following concerns over deteriorating relationships among councillors, leadership instability, and significant failings in its social housing programme. The Best Value Notice cites issues with councillor conduct, poor governance, a backlog of accounts, and weak contract management. Party leaders from the Conservatives, Labour and Reform UK all welcomed the investigation, describing it as an opportunity to restore confidence and address long‑standing problems. The review will remain in place indefinitely and be assessed after 12 months, with expectations that Basildon Council fully cooperate as preparations continue for a planned merger into South West Essex Council in 2028.

Twenty-four drivers were convicted for careless and dangerous driving following a large car meet on Southend seafront, leading to penalties, licence revocations and Section 59 warnings. Police used extensive video evidence to identify offenders, with officials stressing that the behaviour posed serious risks and undermined responsible car enthusiasts. Most convicted drivers had travelled from outside Essex, and additional offences included unregistered vehicles and driving on provisional licences.

A fundraising campaign for Simon Batchelor and Lisa Fryett, a couple from Canvey critically injured in wildfires in southern Spain, has surpassed £48,000 to support travel and accommodation costs for their family. Messages of support have poured in as relatives express gratitude to donors, the local Spanish community and emergency responders, including the Guardia Civil. The couple’s children have travelled to be with them as they receive treatment in a Spanish hospital.

A fire believed to be deliberate destroyed part of the Little Wild Tribe nature nursery site in Hadleigh Country Park, damaging around 20 square metres of woodland before firefighters contained it. Owner Kelly Guthrie described the destruction as heartbreaking, while widespread community support followed through offers of help and messages of sympathy. Essex County Fire and Rescue Service confirmed the blaze was extinguished quickly and is being treated as suspected arson.

A van driver suffered facial injuries after reportedly being attacked with a spanner during a road‑rage confrontation in Laindon. The assailant fled in his car, prompting a large emergency response including armed police, ambulances and an air ambulance landing nearby. Residents described the incident as unusual for the area. Essex Police confirmed an ongoing investigation and requested information quoting incident 959 of July 12.

Reverend Peter Brewer, a former RAF weather forecaster, teacher, and long‑serving church leader in South Essex, celebrates his 105th birthday, attributing his longevity to the care he has received throughout his life. Born in Lowestoft and active in the region during and after the Second World War, he worked in education and ministry across multiple communities, maintained long-term church involvement, and continued helping congregations well into retirement. His family highlights his ongoing hobbies and strong family support, with annual celebrations hosted by his wife Mary.

A new Betfred betting shop has opened on Wickford High Street, relocating from its former Station Avenue site after receiving approval from Basildon Council. Residents expressed concerns about the growing number of betting shops, now totaling three in close proximity. The move fills the long-vacant former Santander premises after previous proposals, including a cocktail bar plan, were rejected. Planning documents state Betfred was the only serious candidate willing to occupy the site.

Parking congestion in Billericay and Basildon has raised safety and access concerns as commuters and commercial vehicles increasingly use residential streets without restrictions. MP Richard Holden and local councillors have been working with residents and schools to address blocked access, risks to children near schools, and difficulties for emergency and waste services. Officials visiting Willows Primary School highlighted the urgent need for coordinated action, including potential changes to road layouts and improved safety measures.