ESSEX Police has received information about a large car meet travelling to Southend this evening.

The force has warned any drivers heading to the car meet could face a fixed penalty notice or fine.

A Public Space Protection Order is in place in Southend to prevent anti-social behaviour in the area including anti-social and dangerous driving offences.

Chief Inspector Jo Collins said “We will be working with our partners, including Southend City Council to ensure that any activity in breach of the Public Space Protection Order is enforced to ensure the safety of visitors and local residents.

“Our officers, including our Roads Policing Officers, CCTV operators and Community Safety Officers will continue to work to keep Southend safe across the weekend.

“I encourage anyone who witnesses dangerous or anti-social driving to report to us on 101.”

Car cruising events have been an issue across Southend in recent years. 

In May last year, Southend Council bosses issued injunctions against 16 drivers after a car cruise meet-up in April 2022.

Essex Police pursued warnings against all 16 vehicles involved, which means if any of the cars are used for anti-social purposes in the next 12 months, they can be immediately seized.