Better Queensway transformation to start – bringing safer streets and future homes to the area

September 2, 2025

Contract signed with Taylor Woodrow to deliver safer, greener, and more accessible streets in the Queensway area.

Essex Street car park to close from 8 September as work begins on major infrastructure improvements.

Project unlocks future housing and includes on-site engagement, regular updates, and marshals to support residents and businesses.

This will be a major milestone in the regeneration of the Queensway estate.

The scheme will reduce the size of the existing roundabout, remove the underpass and discontinued footbridge, and introduce new cycle paths and improved pedestrian access into the town centre. These changes will enhance safety and connectivity for residents and visitors.

This phase of the project will begin on-site with the closure of the temporary Essex Street car park from 8 September. The car park will be used to set up a contractor worksite base, which is essential for delivering the works safely and efficiently.

The council recognises the inconvenience this may cause and will put measures in place to support residents and visitors, including clear signage and marshals to guide drivers to alternative central car parks such as Short Street, Warrior Square, Tylers Avenue and Victoria Centre car parks.

Cllr Kevin Robinson, Cabinet Member for Regeneration, Law and Governance, said: “Better Queensway is a bold step forward for Southend, creating safer, more welcoming spaces for everyone, whether walking, cycling, working, or visiting. We know change can be disruptive, so we’re supporting residents and businesses with regular updates, a Taylor Woodrow community engagement officer on-site two days a week, and alternative parking at car parks like Short Street and Victoria Centre, with marshals to guide you.”

This infrastructure work lays the foundation for future high-quality and affordable housing. The council is working with a property firm to guide the next phase of Better Queensway, which will focus on the housing elements.

Cllr Anne Jones, Cabinet Member for Housing and Planning, added: “Better Queensway is about building the homes and spaces our community needs. This work will improve safety and access, and we’ll keep listening to residents through our Queensway Matters forum every two months. It’s a chance to shape a fairer, more connected Southend - one that reflects our shared pride in the city and our commitment to its future. Together, through your input, we’re building a Southend we can all be proud to call home.”

Homes England is supporting the project through a £15 million Housing Infrastructure Grant.

Pauline Schaffer, Director of Infrastructure Funding at Homes England, said: “As the Government’s housing and regeneration agency, we want to support public and private sector partners to unlock strategic housing sites where brownfield, infrastructure or land projects face delivery challenges.

"We’re backing Better Queensway with a Housing Infrastructure Fund grant, funding infrastructure and enabling new homes and better public spaces for Southend. This investment will deliver inclusive, sustainable places ready for the future.”

For more information visit: www.southend.gov.uk/betterqueensway