Southend Council is made up of 51 elected members to represent the people and govern our town on our behalf.
However, the reality does not match up to this democratic ideal.
Under the cabinet system, powers are concentrated in the hands of just eight councillors.
Pressure groups, such as Saxon King In Priory Park, have an important role, but there is only so much we can do.
It is up to the people to stand up and demand their voice is heard and simple acts can go a long way to achieving this.
The yellow ribbon is an easily recognised universal symbol of protest. In Southend it has come to symbolise the fight to save our trees, however, it means much more now.
“Our voice, our choice”
is our message. Tie a yellow ribbon to your car aerial, door knocker or anywhere prominent to tell the council’s cabinet members they govern on our behalf, not big business.
They must listen to our voice.
Patsy Link, Sheena Walker and Mark Sharp
Saxon King in Priory Park
Beechmont Gardens
Southend
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here