One seafront trader believes the lockdown relaxation will trigger hotspots of chaos along the seafront.

Peter Grubb, owner of Uncle Tom’s Cabin cafe on Shoebury Common beach, said: “We have been waiting for direction on how to manage the expected rush when lockdown is lifted.

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“I have been concerned for weeks that hot spots would be created along the seafront and on Saturday places like the ice cream cafe opposite Ocean Beach and places further along the seafront like the arches were crowded.

“Parts of the seafront were deserted but as soon as you got down to Westcliff it was absolutely rammed. Its poor management.”

Despite car parks opening up this weekend and an expected rise in numbers of visitors, Mr Grubb said his cafe near Shoebury Common car park, would remain closed until protective measures could be put in place.

He added: “I won’t be opening this week. I am going with my original plan to open at the end of the month.

“That will give time for everything to bed in.

“I don’t want to be part of the chaotic situation I saw last Saturday when everyone went crazy on the seafront area.

If we opened people would flock to buy ice cream but we need to have everything under control. My plan to open at the end of May, in line with Government guidelines.”