Southend seafront dispersal order issued over 'beach party'

Martin Richardson, owner of the Happidrome arcade on Marine Parade, said a police dispersal order had been issued after "500 to 600" people had turned up for "a big party on the beach".

• READ MORE: MPs urge people to keep away from Southend seafront and city centre 

The order includes areas such as Marine Parade, Pier Hill, High Street, Western Esplanade and both the city’s train stations.

It is in place from 4.20pm today and will remain until 4pm tomorrow. 

Map - the dispersal zone covering the city centre and seafront (Image: Essex Police)

“They’ve been arriving all day," Mr Richardson told the Echo.

"We just had a radio call come through, 40 of them have just jumped the barriers at Victoria Station with no tickets.

“It was advertised on Facebook and TikTok that there was going to be a beach party at Beach Road which is facing the Adventure Island and Sealife area."

This dispersal order gives police officers the power to direct people suspected causing anti-social behaviour and disorder to leave the area or face arrest.

Acting Inspector Stephen Wells said: “These types of events can result in anti-social behaviour we will not tolerate in Southend or across Essex.

“Members of the public have the right to use this public space without the fear of being harassed or distressed.

“This is a busy part of the city during school holidays and everyone is entitle to use this space respectfully of other people.

“If you’re in Southend today and tomorrow you can expect to see a visible police presence in the city centre and if you have any concerns please come and speak to us.”