The Programme Complement states that one of the objectives of Priority 2 Measure 1 is to seek, through environmental enhancement, to increase the attractiveness of the region for residents, visitors and business

• building on the cultural and historic strengths
• re-developing unsightly and outdated features
• creating a fresh approach to the physical environment

These ‘three pillars’ are the basis on which the project has been developed.

The proposals within the bid, aim to radically change the environment of central Southend by introducing a series of ‘quarters’ for visitors to pass through to access the main town centre and seafront areas.

1. Street Furniture
   
   The installation of co-ordinated seating, bins, lamposts, landscaped areas and public art will immediately make a highly visible impact and contribute to the creation of a new identity throughout the area. The layout of the furniture will be sited for different uses such as performing arts and will reflect the characteristics of the ‘quarters’ of the town centre.
   
   
2. Town Centre Kiosks
   
   The introduction of additional kiosks and the redesigning of the three existing High Street kiosks will encourage activity in these 'quarters; creating a thriving street setting, similar to numerous European towns and cities. The design of the kiosks will be in keeping with other parts of the scheme, and will create communal focal points in their locations.
   
   
3. Electronic Information Points
   
   Electronic information points and video screens will be introduced which will provide details on upcoming events and developments, travel and weather information relating to the town, engaging the visitor to extend their visit and encouraging wider community participation in the life of the town. They will be sited in the town centre.
   
   
4. Toilet Facilities
   
   There will be additional introduction of new toilet facilities into the town centre. Note: underground public toilets were originally located at Victoria Circus.
   
   
5. Public Art
   
   Pieces of public art, such as water feature or sculptures, will be commissioned or bought locally, or contributed by the local community to provide additional focal points within the scheme. This will offer distinctiveness to the area as well as providing meeting areas and focal points for the community and visitors alike.
   
   
6. Signage
   
   The introduction of new signage is also an essential part of the improvements to be made. The new signage will be co-ordinated with the rest of the scheme, and rationalised so that the information provided is simple and clear.
   
   
7. Lighting
   
   The provision of new lighting will not only enhance the scheme, it will also assist in the delivery of an improved feeling of safety. Produced to a design in keeping with the overall style of the project, the columns will be suitable to enable either hanging baskets or flags/banners to be added, thereby bringing colour and vibrancy to the scheme. The columns will also be designed and situated to reflect the different characteristics of the 'quarters' in which they are sited.
   
   
8. Promotions
   
   The town already has a reputation for providing very high quality events and promotions for the people who use the town. The programme is used to support trade by bringing increased spending to the Town Centre.
   
   
9. (Safety and Security)
   
   CCTV coverage will offer significant protection to the redevelopment areas, thereby ensuring that the benefits are long lasting.