Since my last column I have been able to spend a lot of time in the constituency attending local events in an official capacity as well as being out and about in the community with my family.
The new train station at Southend Airport officially opened recently. I was able to travel into London from the new station on the day it opened and I am delighted that we have seen new destinations announced by Easyjet. Holidaying from Southend is so exciting and I know many residents are looking forward to being able to travel from Southend with Easyjet from next year.
A few of the other engagements I have had over recent weeks include a tour of the Garrison site in Shoeburyness and looked at the ongoing developments on the site, I also attended a meeting with the clergy of Southend, meet with the Chief Executive of Rochford District Council and discussed various issues across the district. I also visited Bewley Court in Southend with the HM Chief of the Fire Service and South Essex Homes to see the huge investment and improvements that have been carried out to improve fire safety. The work carried out in Bewley Court is scheduled to be carried out at other tower blocks across the borough.
As I am sure you know Parliament was recalled as a result of the civil unrest and riots that were taking place across the country. The scenes that took place were criminality, pure and simple. It has to be confronted and defeated. I was pleased that the House came together in condemnation of these crimes and stood together in its determination to rebuild these communities.
Until next time