Plans to convert a caravan site into permanent mobile "park homes" have sparked fierce opposition from residents.
Southend Council are considering an application from the owner of the site, Leshome, to replace the static caravans at East Beach Caravan Park, in Shoebury, with 73 one or two-bedroomed mobile "park homes".
If the plans are agreed, occupants of the existing holiday homes could be ordered to leave by October.
Residents in neighbouring streets believe that these additional homes will add to traffic congestion and strain local health services and schools.
Chairman of the Shoebury Residents Association, Mike Assenheim is prepared to fight against these plans all the way and believes the council is only seeing the pound signs.
He said: "Our main concern is the loss of a leisure site. It is the only place in south Essex for caravans. The new homes will create a village and we understand from the fire brigade that the houses will be so close together to be a fire risk.
"If we presume that each of the 73 new homes have two cars, they will be 146 extra cars using the road and extra children which will put a strain on local schools and local doctor's surgeries."
Tricia D'Orsi, who lives in Blackgate Road, which is adjacent to the site, believes these plans will have a "negative impact" on the neighbourhood.
She said: "Can we afford to lose more leisure amenities in the area? What about schooling? "Finally the roads around the area are already congested. Do we need more residents using a road that is becoming busier every day with lorries and the like?"
This view is echoed by mum-of-two, Kim Colledge of Gunners Road. She said: "There are not enough places in schools around here anyway. I am against the plans."
Neighbour Brenda Price added: "I don't mind the development as long as the properties are going to be kept in good condition. I have lived here since 1977 and I have watched the site go downhill. I would oppose plans if the houses are going to be rented out - you don't know who is in your neighbourhood then."
Published Monday, April 28, 2003
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