A large gathering of car enthusiasts in Southend led to the police enforcing a dispersal order on Saturday night (March 22), following reports of dangerous driving and concerns for public safety.
Hundreds of modified car owners and spectators descended on the seafront for an organised car cruise, which caused significant congestion along Marine Parade, Pier Hill, Western Esplanade, and Chalkwell Esplanade.
As the event grew in size, Essex Police intervened, using their vehicles to block sections of the main seafront road to prevent further issues.
The dispersal order was put into effect at 8pm on Saturday and remained in place until 8am on Sunday morning. Under the order, any individuals suspected of engaging in anti-social or dangerous behaviour can be directed to leave the area and face arrest if they return.
What do you think about these kinds of car meets on Southend seafront? Leave a comment below this article and share your thoughts.
Concerns over reckless driving and public safety
Inspector Sian Parry addressed the situation, highlighting the dangers posed by some attendees. “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.”
She further stressed the force’s stance on the event: “We never use these powers lightly, but reckless and dangerous behaviour from drivers who are part of such events will be dealt with robustly. If you are coming to Southend to take part in illegal activity on the roads, the message is clear—don’t. If you do, you’ll be moved on very quickly, or arrested.”
Mixed reactions from locals and car enthusiasts
The event sparked a range of reactions from residents and visitors, with some supporting the crackdown while others defended the car community and its impact on the local economy.
Terry Austin pointed out the benefits of such gatherings: “Southend council need to realise that this sort of thing brings money into the town. Some of the cafes along the seafront were open in the evening when they would normally be shut. Lots of families were down looking at the cars, telling their kids this is what we did at the weekend in the 80s and 90s.”
Jackie O’Brien, who was in Southend for a show at the Cliff’s Pavilion, noted the positive atmosphere: “It seemed to be a great atmosphere along the front, and everyone seemed to be getting along and friendly.”
However, others criticised the authorities’ swift response, contrasting it with other policing priorities. Craig Simpson commented: “Shame the police don’t have such a swift presence when you get broken into, or a mugging happens. Shame on the council too—people used to visit Southend regularly for the car scene, pumping money in for decades.”
Meanwhile, Julie Merrin, who was present at the meet, said: “This is what Southend needs. Let’s hope it’s a regular thing, and the moaners and police leave them alone, providing they aren’t doing anything wrong. It only takes one bad apple to spoil it for us all.”
Not everyone blamed the police for the shutdown, with some pointing fingers at reckless behaviour. Mike Jacobs, who attended the event, said: “Everyone is blaming the police, but it’s people driving stupidly that get the meets shut down like what happened. Kids and burnouts do not generally end well, let alone all the cars that get damaged by the debris thrown up. Everyone was asked to drive safely and not behave stupidly, and this happens – and everyone is blaming the police for doing what they are paid to do. Don’t drive like a tit, and you won’t have your car taken off you, and the rest of us who enjoy attending these meets will still be able to without them getting shut down all the time.”
Rhys Fletcher, who travelled from outside the area to attend, was more upbeat about the experience: “It was a great meet – my first ever time going to Southend and it was well worth the 6-hour round journey. I will definitely be going again.”
The future of car events in Southend
The crackdown has also reignited discussions about the return of organised car events in the town. Brian O’Reilly reminisced about Southend’s once-thriving classic car shows: “I really miss the monthly classic car shows. They must have brought so much more money into Southend with all the extra visitors, but as usual, the council is missing a money-maker there.”
In response, Councillor Matt Dent confirmed that efforts are being made to revive classic car shows and the much-loved ‘Shakedown’ event. Speaking about the police action on Saturday night, he said: “I don’t know the full situation that’s happened on the seafront, but the advantage of a properly organised display is that it can all be worked out ahead of time with the police and other agencies, and procedures can be put in place so that there wouldn’t be any reason to shut it down.”
With discussions ongoing about the balance between public safety and maintaining Southend’s vibrant car culture, it remains to be seen how future events will be managed in the town.