Southend-on-Sea

Southend-on-Sea is a seaside resort and unitary authority in the East of England.

History

Originally the south end of the village of Prittlewell, the town became a popular seaside resort for Londoners during the Victorian era. Due to its proximity to London and easy access by train, the town's economy has largely been based on tourism ever since. The town boasts the world's longest pleasure pier at 1.34 miles (2158 meters) long. Over the years the pier has suffered fires and ship collisions, but has been repaired each time.

Related Topics:
Prittlewell - Victorian era - Tourism - Pier

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However, with the decline of traditional British sea-side resorts, from the 1960s onwards much of the centre of Southend was developed as a centre of commerce, most of the original features of this once-attractive Victorian seaside town being destroyed through redevelopment and neglect. Customs and Excise are major employers in the town, and the central offices for the collection of VAT continue to be located here. Southend recently opened its new university which is hoped will regenerate the somewhat flagging economy in the region. Southend's proximity to London has led to many people using it as a commuter town, which explains to some extent why the town's entertainment and cultural attractions are not as developed or as extensive as in towns of comparable size.

Related Topics:
1960s - Customs and Excise - VAT - University - Commuter

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