750,000-litre flood defence to protect seafront businesses

March 19, 2026

With works progressing at pace on the Better Queensway project, major infrastructure upgrades are now underway that will deliver substantial new flood protection for Southend’s seafront, including underground attenuation tanks able to hold up to 750,000 litres of water – around 15 family-sized swimming pools.

These large underground tanks will soon be installed, with each structure comparable in scale to a section of a London Underground Tunnel and will temporarily store rainwater during periods of heavy rainfall. Installation and connection are expected to be completed by the summer, after which the ground will be reinstated ahead of the construction of the new roundabout.

Delivered as part of the ongoing highway improvements, these drainage systems form a key part of the wider infrastructure upgrades being put in place through Better Queensway – helping to make the area more resilient to extreme weather while preparing the site for future regeneration.

Unlike many flood prevention schemes, which typically prioritise residential properties, these works will provide important protection for Southend’s seafront businesses. By holding water back from the seafront to reduce the risk of flooding and disruption, the investment will help safeguard trade, protect jobs and support the long-term vitality of the city centre and seafront economy.

The Better Queensway project is delivering essential improvements to roads, drainage and public spaces, laying the groundwork for new homes and investment with greatly enhanced public realm in the heart of Southend, while also addressing long-standing infrastructure challenges.

Cllr Daniel Cowan, Leader of the Council, said: “This is exactly the kind of long-overdue investment Southend needs – putting in place the infrastructure that will protect our city and support our economy for the future.

“We recognise that these works can cause disruption, but this is about taking responsible decisions now to reduce flood risk, protect businesses and make our city centre more resilient. It’s about getting on with the job of delivering the regeneration Southend has been promised for years.”

Cllr Kevin Robinson, Cabinet Member for Regeneration, said: “These new attenuation tanks are a major piece of engineering, each comparable in scale to a section of a tube tunnel, and together they will hold up to 750,000 litres of water – the equivalent of around 15 family swimming pools.

“Too often, flood protection focuses on homes alone, but we know how vital our businesses are to Southend. By delivering this as part of the Better Queensway works, we are helping to protect our seafront businesses while laying the groundwork for new homes, investment and a stronger city centre.”

While some temporary disruption is expected as works continue, these improvements will provide lasting benefits by making Southend more resilient, better connected and better prepared for future growth.