Southchurch Hall, a rare and cherished Grade I listed medieval manor house, has been awarded £423,105 from the Museum Estate and Development Fund (MEND).
This funding, provided by the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) and administered, awarded, and monitored by Arts Council England, will safeguard the building's historic fabric and support urgent repairs. The successful council bid reflects the dedication of our Southend Museums and Property and Estates teams.
Southchurch Hall is one of several historic sites cared for by Southend Museums, a council-funded service, and is a cherished landmark for the local community. This timber-framed, medieval moated manor house, likely built on the site of a Saxon Hall, retains original medieval features that tell the story of Southend's rich past.
The £423,105 grant will not only safeguard its legacy but also unlock its commercial potential and enhance its role in serving both residents and visitors.
Cllr Matt Dent, Cabinet Member for Culture, Tourism, and Business, said: "We are delighted to see Southchurch Hall receive this £423,105 grant from the Museum Estate and Development Fund to protect its historic character. This investment preserves our rich heritage while unlocking the Hall's potential as a vibrant cultural asset.
"I'd like to thank our Southend Museums and Property and Estates team for their hard work on the funding bid. With Southend City Day on 1 March, this news comes at the perfect time to celebrate our shared history and the arts. As the Hall is in my ward, I am especially proud to see this achievement."
Cllr Daniel Cowan, Leader of the Council, added: "At the heart of our vision is a commitment to civic pride, and restoring Southchurch Hall is a shining example of that promise. By investing in this historic asset, we are protecting a vital piece of our past and building a brighter future for our community.
"I am very grateful to Southend Museums and our Property and Estates team for securing this funding from the Museum Estate and Development Fund. With Southend City Day on 1 March celebrating the spirit and unity of our city, this announcement perfectly reflects our collective pride in Southend."
The £423,105 from MEND will fund critical repairs and restoration, enabling Southchurch Hall to continue hosting exhibitions, events, and visitors eager to explore its history. This investment, aligned with a national commitment supported by DCMS and Arts Council England to bolster Britain's cultural heritage, will enhance the Hall's role as a community hub and tourist destination.
With Southend City Day fast approaching, this milestone offers a perfect opportunity to celebrate the city's heritage and its ambitious future.
For more information about Southchurch Hall and Southend City Day, visit: