Southend-on-Sea is poised for a significant transformation with the Better Queensway redevelopment project, a £500 million initiative aimed at revitalizing the city’s urban landscape. This ambitious plan seeks to replace the existing Queensway Estate with a modern, sustainable community, enhancing both living conditions and connectivity within the city.
Key Aspects of the Better Queensway Project:
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Housing: The project plans to construct approximately 1,700 new homes, significantly increasing the residential capacity compared to the current estate. Notably, at least 512 of these units are designated as genuinely affordable housing, comprising 300 social rented homes and 212 intermediate homes, including shared equity and shared ownership options.
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Green Spaces: Emphasizing environmental sustainability, the redevelopment includes the creation of new green areas, such as an urban park, the planting of 190 new trees, and the addition of 1,400 meters of new cycle paths along Queensway and Southchurch Road.
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Infrastructure Improvements: The current Queensway urban motorway, which has been a barrier between the town center and surrounding residential areas, will be transformed into a tree-lined boulevard. This redesign aims to promote walking, cycling, and recreational activities, thereby enhancing the overall quality of life for residents.
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Environmental Initiatives: The project incorporates sustainable urban drainage systems to mitigate flood risks and improve water quality along the seafront. Additionally, upgrades to local electricity networks are planned to support energy-efficient homes and the increasing demand for electric vehicle charging stations.
Community Impact:
The redevelopment aims to address longstanding issues associated with the Queensway Estate, including crime and antisocial behavior. By creating a safer and more attractive environment, the project seeks to foster a sense of community and pride among residents.
Current Status:
The Better Queensway project has received outline consent for its masterplan and detailed consent for highway changes. Construction is anticipated to commence in the early stages of next year, marking a significant milestone in Southend-on-Sea’s urban development.
This redevelopment represents a pivotal moment for Southend-on-Sea, promising to reshape the city’s landscape and enhance the quality of life for its residents through thoughtful and sustainable urban planning.