SPECIALIST police officers have warned watersport enthusiasts to play by the rules on Southend seafront this summer.
A Public Space Protection Order is in place after a rise in nuisance watercraft riders putting others in danger by behaving “irresponsibly” and flouting local byelaws.
The rules cover the whole of the Southend foreshore from the Ministry of Defence grounds in Blackgate Road to halfway across Two Tree Island.
Riders, who are only allowed to launch from the Shoebury Common Slipway in Ness Road, are banned from coming within 400m of any public beach, pier or berthing area.
Essex Police Marine Unit officer Ian Newling said the PSPO was necessary after “several near misses” involving personal watercrafts and anti-social behaviour from riders.
“We don’t want to discourage people from using PWCs, the idea is to make sure that everyone is safe and that includes the riders themselves,” he said.
“The PSPO is there to regulate those people who don’t want to abide by the rules. While the vast majority have been fine, a small minority have been causing problems.
“Their riding has been dangerous at times. They have ridden through moorings, and in areas where there have been swimmers, kayakers and paddleboarders.
“It’s fortunate that we’ve not had any serious incidents.
“We will always look to engage with people first and explain the legislation, but if there are repeat offenders, we will take enforcement action.”
Failure to comply with a PSPO is a criminal offence which can lead to a fixed penalty notice of £100 or a fine of up to £1,000 upon conviction.
Last summer, 164 verbal warnings were given and 12 personal watercraft riders reported for court action after speeding.
Southend Council’s community safety and public protection chief James Courtenay said the legislation is in place to protect those enjoying a trip to the seaside.
He said: “Everyone must take responsibility for their actions and this includes the use of jetskis and other personal watercrafts.
“We have had reports of them racing close to pier and being quite reckless.”
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