FAMILIES and tourists visiting a Shoebury beach and setting up campsites have been told they will face fines.

Shoebury’s East Beach has recently faced an issue with a rising number of people pitching up tents overnight, sparking concerns the issue is “getting out of hand”.

A campsite of around eight tents was seen at the beach last month, with pictures taken yesterday showing two new tents have appeared.

Martin Terry, independent councillor for community safety, has urged campers to avoid camping in prohibited areas or face fines.

Camping - Two tents seen on East Beach yesterdayCamping - Two tents seen on East Beach yesterday (Image: Provided)

He said: “We are aware of the increased camping on Shoebury East Beach, which is not a designated campsite.

“Residents have raised valid concerns about littering, barbecues, and antisocial behaviour.

“Our pier and foreshore officers, supported by community safety officers, will engage with anyone breaking barbecue rules or involved in antisocial behaviour, issuing fines where necessary and working with the police when needed.”

Mr Terry emphasised that the council does wish to “engage with people” around the camping issue, rather than jumping to enforcement action.

He added: “While our parks, beaches, and open spaces are popular with visitors, it’s important to note that camping is not permitted in our parks, car parks, or on any of our beaches overnight.

“However, if a family sets up a tent on the beach for sun or wind protection and packs it away at the end of the day, this is generally acceptable.

“We urge all visitors to respect local regulations by avoiding camping in prohibited areas, disposing of litter responsibly, and refraining from having barbecues on our beaches.

“Failure to comply may result in fines, and those found camping overnight will be asked to move on.”

East Beach residents’ association member and former councillor, Tricia Cowdrey, has questioned how enforcement will actually be carried out.

She said: “Enforcement action was taken last time with the eight tents and the people there moved back, there are a lot of bylaws in our beaches and around dogs and barbecues and illegal camps, none seem to be enforced.

“We need to be enforcing our bylaws.”