Serving the City; saving energy, cutting costs

October 20, 2022

Measures are being put in place by Southend-on-Sea City Council to conserve energy and save on costs this winter.

With winter fast approaching, rising energy costs and the cost-of-living crisis, like all households, the council is looking into different ways to save money. Last month it was announced that the top five floors of the Civic Centre were closing to save on energy bills, and that other council facilities would be looked at. As part of that work, a decision has been made to adjust the timings for two City Beach attractions during the winter season.

The City Beach fountains will be switched off during the week (Monday to Friday), except during October and February half terms and over the Christmas holidays when more visitors come to the City. On Saturdays and Sundays, the fountains will be on from Midday to 5pm, instead of the current 10am to 6pm.

The City Beach light totems will also now be switched off at 10pm every evening instead of midnight. It is expected that these measures will save the council in excess of £30,000 in 2022/23. Timings will be reviewed on Friday 25 March 2023.

This is just one of the many ways the council are attempting to tackle the financial challenge it faces in the face of the cost-of-living crisis, rising inflation, fuel and energy costs and the increased demand for services. To find out what else we are doing visit our website.

Cllr Stephen George, leader of the council, said: “As we continue to tackle our financial challenge and seek energy and cost savings, we still want to make sure our residents and visitors have access to the wonderful attractions that our City has to offer.

“We have therefore decided to adjust the timings of the City Beach totem lights and fountains, so they are turned off during off-peak times such as during the week but still operational at peak times over the Winter months such as weekends and school holidays. These changes allow us to cut back non-essential expenditure and will help ensure that we can continue to support the most vulnerable members of our community effectively.”