MORE than 4,000 people have backed the Echo's campaign to stop a massive waste plant being forced on Basildon.

The Don't Dump on Basildon campaign calls on Essex County Council to bin proposals for a mechanical biological treatment plant and recycling centre at Courtauld Road.

The newsroom and website have been flooded with responses from more than 1,000 readers, while campaigners have handed us around 3,300 names backing our petition.

Rob Hill, Northlands Park Residents Association chairman, and a key campaigner in the fight, said: "This is fantastic news. When you bear in mind the usual response level to a consultation, more than 4,000 is amazing and shows the strength of local opposition.

"It is vital everyone opposed to the plans signs the Echo coupon, if they have not already done so, to make the message to county as clear as possible."

If built, Courtauld Road would be one of the biggest waste plants of its kind in Europe, dealing with 700,000 tonnes of rubbish a year from as far away as Epping.

It would also see 400 extra lorries travelling to and from the site on a daily basis.

Basildon Council leader Malcolm Buckley said: "I am glad to see the district united on this."

The Echo has lodged an official objection against the planning application, which will be considered by county councillors who will make the decision this summer. We believe the county council should identify a more appropriate site away from the 8,000 homes within a 2km radius of Courtauld Road.