Crays Hill travellers' site could become a "walled fortress" to fend off bailiffs if plans to construct a brick perimeter around it are carried out.

The proposal to put a wall around the site and block access roads is the latest idea being considered by some members of the travelling community in a bid to remain there next May when scores of families could face eviction.

Private talks between Crays Hill travellers, the Gypsy Council and Basildon Council are scheduled for next Thursday after leaders at the site called for calm and ways of solving the crisis peacefully.

There has already been talk of 11th-hour planning applications and last minute appeals to delay the process.

See today's Echo for more details.

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