SOUTHEND Shakedown is set to make a triumphant return which could see hundreds of bikers rally on East Beach for a new and improved event.

After the 2023 Shakedown was cancelled, organisers have been banging their heads together to ensure the event can return and have devised a grand plan.

Rather than bikers taking over the seafront and stretching from Western Esplanade to Marine Parade, next year’s event is set to be hosted on Shoebury’s East Beach.

Taking inspiration from the hugely popular East Beach Festival, organisers have submitted a licensing application to host the event in the same spot on Easter Monday next year.

Adam Ball, chairman of the Southend Shakedown Association, said: “Following our meeting at the Borough Hotel, in Marine Parade, on September 12, we had a good response and are working on it now.

“We have some new people involved and some new things going on, which I cannot disclose at the moment.

“As well as this, safety protocol measures are being planned to ensure everyone can have a good time in a danger-free environment.

“I cannot wait to share more details in the future.”

Southend Shakedown 2023 was cancelled after a volunteer suffered a leg injury at the previous year’s event, with organisers struggling to get safety precautions in place.

Mr Ball added: “We have been looking at having an enclosed area so we can have more stalls for traders and ensure the event will be managed more efficiently and effectively.

“Also, Southend is a big area and hopefully with it being in Shoebury, it will shine a light on other parts of the city.

If plans are accepted by the council, Southend Shakedown 2024 will reside in the same spot as the East Beach Festival, which this year celebrated Caribbean culture.

On August 12 and 13, festivalgoers enjoyed a fun fair, feasting on mouth-watering jerk cuisine, and appreciate the Jamaican culture.

However, those living near the site expressed concerns over noise and parking, with one resident unable to access his driveway.

The chairman said the team will “do everything they can” to keep noise to a minimum and to ensure there will be no parking issues.