Southend Council denies claim High Street a ‘no-go’ area

Speaking at the council meeting, resident David Webb said “high volumes” of drinking and anti-social behaviour in the High Street had impacted shops and banks, and asked what powers could be given to police and community safety officers, known as street rangers, to tackle the issue.

According to the Local Democracy Reporting Service, Mr Terry said a new safe space zone would be set up in the High Street at weekends, from the beginning of autumn.

It would be “manned by police and key partners, ensuring strong visible presence and reducing fear of crime”, he added.

“Southend Council’s community safety unit work closely with Essex Police and the street rangers to tackle street drinking and associated anti-social behaviour, through a range of tools at their disposal.”

Eight men and boys are due in court later this month charged with various offences in connection with the incident in July.