Plans to restore Southchurch Hall and gardens have been unveiled by Southend Council.

The move forms part of the authority's five year parks and open spaces strategy, that will be ratified at cabinet tomorrow afternoon, from 2pm.

If agreed, there will then be a 12- week public consultation about the proposals so residents, stakeholders and partners can have their say about it too.

These include creating community orchards, boosting tree donations, increasing educational visits and developing wildlife schemes, using recycled materials such as granite kerb edgings in parks, restoring Southchurch Hall, re-landscaping Southchurch Park, encouraging more volunteering, and much more.

This is in addition to introducing management plans to maintain and improve parks, as well as increasing the numbers of events and activities there.

Executive Councillor for Enterprise, Tourism and Economic Development, Councillor Graham Longley said: “Parks and open spaces are vital for the health and wellbeing of residents of all ages as well as adding immeasurably to Southend’s attractions as a visitor destination – and providing a haven for wildlife.

“In this difficult financial climate it is essential that we find innovative ways to make sure we protect and develop these green lungs of our town which are becoming increasingly important.”

Details of the proposed strategy being considered by tomorrow’s Cabinet meeting can be found on the Council’s website: www.southend.gov.uk The meeting takes place from 2pm in the Jubilee Room at Southend Civic Centre, Victoria Avenue, Southend, SS2 6ER.

Meanwhile, information about how to take part in the subsequent consultation will be widely publicised when this is launched later in the year.