New transport safety officers are set to patrol Southend stations with powers to issue fines as part of a £490,000 pilot scheme to tackle antisocial behaviour.

The new officers will closely coordinated with train operators c2c and Greater Anglia, as well as British Transport Police and Essex Police, to address antisocial behaviour and promote safety for passengers in the city.

This pilot scheme, a collaboration between Southend Council, Thurrock Council, and Essex County Council, has received £490,000 in funding from the Department for Transport.

While their focus will be on engagement and education, these officers will also have enforcement powers, including issuing fixed penalty notices for specific antisocial behaviours.

Recruited transport safety officers will undergo training and vetting to effectively manage low-level nuisance and disorder incidents. Their duties will include patrolling designated routes and locations, complementing the efforts of other safety personnel.

James Courtenay, Conservative councillor responsible for community safety and public protection, said: “I am thrilled that we are introducing transport safety officers to Southend.

“We are dedicated to reducing antisocial behaviour and creating a safe, inclusive environment for everyone, with a further objective of reducing violence against women and girls.

“This initiative also demonstrates successful partnership working, as we join forces with Essex Police, British Transport Police, c2c, and Greater Anglia to strengthen safety efforts on transport networks.”