CASTLE Point will find out by January how many sites the borough will have to provide for travellers.

The borough is currently obliged to provide two pitches under the East of England Plan.

But a review into the provision for gypsies and travellers is likely to rule the borough must provide space for 15 caravans.

This is to help spread the burden faced by Basildon, which has 110 official pitches.

Dave Blackwell, leader of Canvey Independent Party, is concerned about the effect the extra requirement could have on Canvey.

He said: “There is nowhere on Canvey where we can put a travellers site.

“It would have to go on open space and we have got hardly any green belt left.

“I think there would be a public outcry if this goes ahead.”