Peter Lovett, vice chair of Shoebury Residents Association, said the older generation are now fearing to go out at night in the areas outside of the town centre.
The 75-year-old said: “It’s an increasing problem, no doubt. On our page we are getting a lot more concerned about increasing bad behaviour.
“There’s stabbings, violent crime and on the beaches people are leaving rubbish behind.
“I think it’s more frightening and for us we are trying to reassure the older generation and they are concerned about going out at night.
“It’s making Southend a no-go area.
“We want to go out safe and now it’s going the opposite way. I am worried about the summer.”