A trader today called for businesses to join forces with Castle Point Council and transform Canvey town centre.

Mike Machin of Selectronic in Furtherwick Road, Canvey, who chairs Canvey Island Traders Association (CITA) says it is about time something was done. He believes a joint effort would be the answer, with increased street lighting top of the improvement agenda.

He said: "At 4pm in Furtherwick Road you can't see your hand in front of your face. Over the Christmas period, among the traders there were 12 windows smashed.

"The traders are really fed up with vandalism and increased lighting would help."

Deputy council leader Jeff Stanley, who lives on Canvey, said: "It's a good idea. Mr Machin has been in touch with the council before and quite clearly Canvey town centre could do with work to make it a more pleasant and attractive place for people to shop."

Published Friday January 16, 2004

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