RESIDENTS and businesses are being urged to have their say on new tough powers to clampdown on “dangerous” car cruises across the city.

Southend Council has launched a fresh consultation on the proposed new public space protection order (PSPO) which will be designed to prevent large groups of drivers gathering for unofficial car meets.

If approved, the order will prevent drivers from creating excess noise - including music and revving engines - racing, speeding, carrying out stunts, as well as creating a public nuisance and engaging in anti-social behaviour. Breaking the order could result in fines or fixed penalty notices.

Paul Thompson, owner of Pebbles One Cafe on Southend Seafront, said: “I welcome any extra powers that stop dangerous driving and noisy vehicles.

“These drivers are a real menace, and the dangerous driving and modified vehicles are the main issues.

“We have people living on the seafront and these issues do not make it a very welcoming or nice environment for them or the visitors.”

The council’s plans have been scaled back from initial proposals put forward last month.

As a result, the proposed order will not include driving at excessive speed, driving in convoy, parking and exiting a car not in a designated parking space, or using nitrous oxide within vehicles.

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.

Martin Terry, councillor responsible for public protection, said: “I know many residents and visitors have their reservations about car cruisers and this PSPO would be readily in place so the police and community safety officers can effectively tackle anti-social behaviour associated with these meet ups.

“What this PSPO will tackle are those drivers who are seeking the thrill of showing off their driving skills and in the process endangering people, property and the reputation of Southend.”

The consultation runs until March 14. Take part at yoursay.southend.gov.uk/pspo-antisocial-car-cruises