Southend-on-Sea City Council has successfully enforced its Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) following recent car meets in the city where anti-social behaviour took place.
Following two car meets on 24 February and 22 March this year, council officers reviewed CCTV footage, and a total of 41 fixed penalty notices (FPNs) of £100 each have been retrospectively issued for breaches.
The PSPO is not a ban on car meets but is there By successfully enforcing these orders, the council aims to create safer and more peaceful environments for all residents and visitors to the city.
Following complaints from residents and businesses, the PSPO came into force on 4 April 2023 to specifically target anti-social and dangerous activities related to car meets, including excessive noise from vehicle modifications, horns, or amplified music, dangerous driving as well as antisocial behaviour such as verbal abuse, intimidation, or disruptive behaviour towards others.
Simon Ford, head of community safety at Southend-on-Sea City Council, said: “The PSPO is not a ban on car meets and people who come to our seafront and drive and show their vehicles sensibly, respectfully and safely have nothing to fear from the PSPO; it is simply there to deter and address the antisocial behaviours that have a harmful effect on others. However, anyone who comes to the City of Southend intending to drive recklessly, put themselves or others at risk of harm, or behave in an antisocial way should be aware that they will be dealt with swiftly and firmly.
“These PSPOs are a crucial step towards ensuring our public spaces are enjoyed responsibly and safely by residents, drivers and visitors. Our extensive high-definition CCTV network means we can review footage after suspected PSPO breaches and still issue fixed penalty notices retrospectively. The 41 FPNs highlight our commitment to enforcing when needed.”
Chief superintendent Waheed Khan, south Essex local policing area commander, added: “We know Southend is a frequent destination for car enthusiasts; the vast majority of whom behave appropriate and add to the atmosphere in the city.
“But we also know events such as these have led to antisocial behaviour in the past and we'll work with our partners at Southend-on-Sea City Council to ensure the strongest possible action is taken on those people behaving that way.
“Especially as we enter the Spring and Summer season, we all want families visiting Southend to enjoy their time in the city. It’s a great destination with a lively atmosphere and we want to keep it that way.”