SOUTHEND is among the top ten seaside towns to live in, according to a new study.

And research, conducted by property website Zoopla, shows the average price of a home, as of July, in the borough is £269,276 – up more than six per cent on last year’s figure.

Southend ranked tenth nationally for seaside towns in the study, which was topped by Margate and saw fellow Essex coastline Walton-on-the-Naze finish third.

Ann Holland, Tory councillor for culture, tourism and the economy, has welcomed the news - and believes Southend is on the up.

She said: “It’s very pleasing to hear and I think it’s very good news for Southend.

“We’ve opened the lagoon, and have a £3.3 million bid with the coastal revival fund to carry out work in Shoebury, Leigh and central Southend.

“Being just on the outskirts of London helps us a lot, and having two good train services is a strong point for Southend. But we also have great culture and our art scene is very well known.

“What we’re trying to do is not just encourage people to live here, but also visitors from abroad flying into Southend airport. We want the overall package.”

Southend’s much anticipated seafront lagoon, that will ensure visitors can enjoy a swim in the sea even when the tide is out, opened on Thursday.

Under the plans, the ageing jetty at Three Shells Beach has also been replaced for use by the Alexandra Yacht Club and Lower Thames Rowing Club, adding to the water sports opportunities at the central seafront.

Richard Hair, senior partner at Hair & Son Estate Agents, believes property prices have increased more than Zoopla’s study suggests.

He said: “Our own research shows the figure for property price changes is actually closer to ten per cent. Now this is obviously good and bad depending on which way you look at it.

“If you are looking to buy in Southend, then it means you will need to pay more. For those selling they can be reassured that the value of their home is on the rise.

“In terms of what has changed in the past 12 months in Southend for demand in school places, popularity in seafront and other things, there is not that much to report.

“Brexit hasn’t impacted on the market in Southend or in the south east in general.”