HUGE tankers rumbling along residential roads on Canvey could become a thing of the past after Calor Gas got permission to build a new access road to its plant.

The new private road between Haven Road and the giant gas terminals off Thames Road would link up with the £18.5million Roscommon Way extension and stop them having to use Thames Road, Thorney Bay Road and Long Road in future.

The new road would take about 15 vehicle movements a day.

Graeme Lockwood, Calor’s national terminals manager, said: “The access road will bring considerable benefits to the local community as it will divert Calor vehicles away from residential areas of Canvey Island, whilst making effective utilisation of the Roscommon Way extension.

“We have previously given a commitment to local residents and councillors that we would explore options to reduce the impact of our LPG tankers operating from the terminal, and as such we are delighted with the decision taken by the planning committee.”

Steve Rogers, head of regeneration and neighbourhoods at Castle Point Council, said: “It is not considered the number of vehicles that would likely use the road, or the proximity of the road to nearby properties, would have a significant impact on the amenity of any residents.

“The benefits outweigh any perceived harm.”