Rochford car seized after illegal street racing reports

James Newport, leader of Rochford Council, claims there has been a “spike” in recent issues surrounding the Southend Airport Business Park, in Cherry Orchard Way, with boy racers regularly gathering in the area. 

Following reports of reckless driving and nuisance vehicles, a “special operation” was launched over the weekend which saw one car seized and two “section 59” warnings issued. 

A section 59 acts as a warning from police that your car could be seized if it is involved in further incidents. 

Cherry Orchard Way is popular with street racers (Image: Google Maps)

Mr Newport, Liberal Democrat councillor for the Downhall and Rawreth ward, praised police for taking action. 

He said: “I’ve received multiple complaints about these types of antisocial behaviours across our district.

“I was really pleased we’ve been able to work with our partners in the police to handle the issue of racing in the area. We’ve already seen some positive outcomes from the work that’s been done, and police will be continuing their operations.”

Cllr James Newport praised the police's actions (Image: James Newport)

The councillor also emphasised the impact that antisocial driving behaviour can have on residents, particularly when issues are ongoing.

“The Rochford district isn’t a place for this kind of activity. Residents feel less safe when things like this are going on and deserve peace of mind,” he said.

Parts of the A1245 are also used for racing (Image: Google Maps)

Mr Newport added: “I’m really grateful for the work the police have been doing on this issue. They’re stretched very thin, and a lot of the officers have been doing the work as overtime.”

Castle Point and Rochford District Commander Chief Inspector Paul Hogben said that the force remains committed to making the district’s roads safe for residents.

He confirmed that following an increase in reports, the decision was made to take “decisive” and “robust” action.

He said: “As part of this work, we issued two section 59 warnings and seized a vehicle.

“Our action ensured the vehicles dispersed quickly and this is part of an ongoing operation in the area. This type of antisocial behaviour will not be tolerated, and we will respond and disrupt this type of activity in our communities.