With train strikes and engineering works this weekend, we are asking residents and visitors attending Southend Business Improvement District’s free firework display to plan their travel in advance.
There is planned nationwide strike action affecting both C2C and Greater Anglia rail lines on Saturday 8 October, which is also the first weekend of the Southend BID’s annual free firework display along the seafront. Although a reduced service will run between 7.30am and 6.30pm, both local operators are warning of severe disruption and advise not travelling on their networks.
To avoid traffic and parking issues, Southend-on-Sea City Council are urging those attending to plan ahead with their journey, use bus networks, and if driving leave plenty of time and use the City Centre car parks, then walk to the seafront.
Cllr Steven Wakefield, cabinet member for highways, transport and parking, said: “We know how popular the Southend BID fireworks are, and it is fantastic how many people they bring into the City Centre and the seafront. We also know it will be busy and with train strikes and engineering works expected to cause disruption, we are urging visitors to plan ahead to ensure an enjoyable night out for all the family.
“Please check routes before travelling, leave yourselves plenty of time and use the City Centre car parks and walk to the seafront, to avoid traffic congestion along the esplanade. There are plenty of car parking spaces in the City and it’s only a short walk to the seafront. Also there are plenty of other places to visit, to eat, and activities to enjoy, so why not come early to Southend while you wait for the fireworks to begin.”
Suzanne Gloyne, manager of Southend BID, said: “'We encourage everyone attending our exciting firework display this weekend to carefully organise their travel arrangements beforehand; we wouldn't want anyone to miss out amid ongoing train strikes and engineering works. By planning your route and finding a suitable parking spot if necessary, you can look forward to watching our fantastic show without any delays or difficulties.”
To find out more about the car parks available, visit our where you can park page.
For details about the fireworks, go to the Visit Southend website, or the Southend BID website.
For more information about the train strikes, please visit C2C website or Greater Anglia website