Southend United is a modern football story. A maze of development, council, and financial precarity, its survival and revival is intertwined with local and national politics. 

Ahead of the May 2027 local elections, we sit down with the leaders of Southend-on-Sea's local political groups to ask the big questions:  

1. If you are elected to Southend on Sea City Council, what can you do to help protect and preserve the long-term success and sustainability of Southend United? 

2. The redevelopment of Roots Hall stadium, which is so pivotal for Southend United’s continuing existence, would be plunged into doubt without the proposed flow of money from the planned residential development at Fossetts Farm to the football club. What will you be doing to help get the Fossetts Farm development through, if anything? 

3. Essex’s Local Government Reorganisation is set to take effect fully from April 2028. Do you see this impacting the Fossetts Farm plans or the ability/willingness of local government to work with Southend United? If so, how? 

4. What are your long-term aspirations for Southend United and its role in the city? 

Whether you're a Southend fan, a local resident, or just someone who wants to know who's really going to deliver for Southend, this podcast is for you. 

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Recorded: Between 23rd April – 3rd May 2026 

We wrote to all candidates in the election, as well as contacting the group leaders.

For more information on the Southend Elections please visit: https://www.southend.gov.uk/elections

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