A dispersal order has been slapped on Southend tonight after reports of dangerous and reckless driving sparked chaos during a car cruise event along the Western Esplanade.
The order kicked in at 8pm on Saturday, March 22, and will stay in place until 8am Sunday, March 23. It gives Essex Police the power to break up groups causing trouble, force them to leave the area, and stop them coming back—else face arrest.
Key Seafront Hotspots Under Watch
The crackdown covers hot spots along the seafront including Marine Parade, Pier Hill, Western Esplanade, and Chalkwell Esplanade. These areas have seen dangerous driving and crowds dangerously close to speeding cars.
Public Safety Sparks Police Clampdown
The move follows a surge in reckless driving reports and worries over spectators standing too close to the roads, risking serious injury. Police say the dispersal order aims to protect the public and stop things spiralling further out of control.
“This evening we have unfortunately seen dangerous and reckless driving. This is putting people at risk and will not be tolerated. We have resources in place to deal with illegal activity and protect our communities,” said Inspector Sian Parry, Essex Police.
“We never use these powers lightly, but reckless and dangerous behaviour from drivers involved in such events will be dealt with robustly. I want to be very clear—if you’re coming to Southend to take part in illegal activity on the roads, don’t. If you do, you’ll be moved on quickly or arrested.”
Police Call for Public Support
Essex Police urge locals and visitors to cooperate with officers and report any further reckless driving or anti-social behaviour. The dispersal order is part of a wider crackdown on illegal car meets, which have become a real headache across the UK.
Stay tuned for more updates as the situation unfolds overnight.
