NEW spy cameras which monitor noise pollution must be set up in Southend to rid the seafront of nuisance yobs revving their engines and performing stunts, according to a trader and councillor.

Paul Thompson is one of a number of people backing calls for the introduction of state-ofthe-art technology called Medusa, which uses both radar and cameras to monitor vehicle noise in roads.

The tech, which is already being rolled out across tourist hotspots in France, records noise levels and can detect vehicles breaching a specified limit.

The offending vehicle’s licence plate is tracked by cameras, with the driver then issued a fine.

Mr Thompson who runs Pebbles One Cafe on the seafront, insists the technology will help rid the seafront of unwanted noise, as well as reduce dangerous driving.

He said: “It’s about cracking down on nuisance yobs on motorbikes and vehicles speeding, doing donuts, spins and driving dangerously.

“It’s part of a message we want to send out to people that if they misbehave and commit crime and cause problems there will be action.

“It’s also part of a wider message to people that if you come to Southend and behave you are welcome but if not there will be action.

“It will help make the city safer and help stop the disruption to people living near the seafront as lots do. I think it would benefit everyone.”

He insisted the cameras could be installed in other parts of the city as well, including in Leigh and parts of the A127.

The tech could cost around £3million but Conservative councillor Kevin Buck is hopeful that figure could be much lower.

“I’ve had emails from residents living on the seafront asking what the council is doing about it,” he added.

“I believe these would make a huge difference and we want people to come here and act responsibly and considerately.”

Mr Buck claims backfiring exhausts are a regular problem for people living near the seafront, who are regularly woken late at night by anti-social driving.

Martin Terry, Southend councillor for public protection, said: “We are aware there is a problem with vehicle noise disturbing residents, and we are working with various partners to find possible solutions.”