This column by Southend West MP Anna Firth was published in yesterday's paper:

"At the heart of the Government’s agenda is levelling up communities across the country, and I am absolutely determined that we will see real benefits from this programme here in Southend.

"Southend welcomes more than 7 million visitors every year and contributes £3billion to the Exchequer, and the Government has recognised the huge potential we have here. 

"We have already received £27million of levelling-up funding, with £20million given to the old port of Leigh to enable our famous cockle industry to survive well into the future.

"However, we must go further. A key part of levelling up is restoring our civic pride and spreading opportunity through investment in culture. 

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"Becoming the UK’s City of Culture 2029 is a key step in my vision to make Southend wealthier. 

"Not only will it enable us to celebrate local heritage, it will help inspire local pride in our city and be a catalyst to generate better quality jobs. 

"When Coventry was the UK City of Culture last year, they benefitted from an additional £172million of revenue, and 102 jobs were directly created, including 14 apprenticeships.

"We deserve the same in Southend.

"We are home to some brilliant cultural sites, and I want to see more funding for the Palace Theatre and investment in new cultural amenities so that we become a national cultural hub.

"We are home to the unique Prittlewell Prince site, and I want to see a new museum built showcasing the fantastic artifacts.

"But of course, Southend is nothing without its people, and I want to hear your ideas for how we could Level Up Southend.

"I have launched a new survey on my website where you can share your ideas – I do hope you will be able to participate, and I look forward to hearing from you."

Westminster Diary

Anna Firth, MP for Southend West