Priory Park is closed due to a police incident.
It is currently unclear what has happened, but Southend Council has issued an alert.
It reads: "Please be aware that Priory Park will be closing due to a serious incident which Essex Police are investigating."
It is thought the incident is linked to the travellers who have pitched up at the park.
Please be aware that Priory Park will be closing due to a serious incident which @EssexPoliceUK are investigating.
— Southend-on-Sea BC (@SouthendBC) July 27, 2018
Section 61 notices have been issued to the Unauthorised Encampment in #PrioryPark. The Encampment have been given until 10am tomorrow to leave the site. @SouthendBC @PcMarekJaworski pic.twitter.com/yMmJ0jz4Iw
— Southend Police (@SouthendPolice) July 26, 2018
Update: 2.09pm
We have a reporter heading to the scene.
Essex Police and Southend Council have both been contacted for comment.
Witnesses have described seeing a "knife fight" among travellers, but this is currently unconfirmed.
Update: 2.25pm
Following on from an incident in Priory Park, we can now confirm that the park is fully open and accessible to residents and visitors. We apologies for any inconvenience.
— Southend-on-Sea BC (@SouthendBC) July 27, 2018
I can confirm the unauthorised encampment at #PrioryPark #Southend is no more, the vehicles have left the borough!@SouthendBC #Partnership https://t.co/Zsjwc3nIpW
— T/Insp Ian Hughes (@T_InspHughes) July 27, 2018
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