SOUTHEND seafront is set to be closed off to cars throughout the evening this weekend, according to traders.

The Echo have been told that the seafront will be closed to traffic from 7pm until midnight tonight, tomorrow and on Sunday.

It's believed the closure is in a bid to fight back against crime and anti-social behaviour.

It comes after three dispersal orders were placed in Southend this week alone.

Echo:

The first was on Saturday night after hundreds gathered for an illegal car meet.

The second was put in place on Monday night after two teens were stabbed.

The third was put in place last night after another disturbance along the seafront.

Southend council and Essex Police are set to confirm the closure later today.