A HUGE container which has blighted a Leigh street for two years cannot be removed by Southend Council because it on housing association land.

The 20ft-wide, green, metal container, in the front garden of the house in Harridge Road, is half the length of the semi-detached property and the top is the same height as the first floor.

Neighbours have complained to town and borough councillors and town councillor Caroline Parker said a number of her people had come to her with concerns.

She said: “It’s quite visible to anyone driving along Blenheim Chase and they worry it could set a dangerous precedent.

“I received complaints after a resident near me put up a shed in their front garden.

“ I knew this was against planning regulations and a notice was served on that in a week.

“Within another week, it was gone, and those people now want to know why that was dealt with so quickly, but this container has been allowed to stay there for two years.”

Graham Longley, ward councillor, said the council had been aware of the problem for some time but, as the property belonged to South Essex Homes, responsibility rested with the housing association. He said: “The local members are working hard to persuade the council to take action by working with South EssexHomes to get rid of it, as it’s been a problem for a couple of years, but it is taking a while.”

A South Essex Homes spokesman said: “We are working closely with the resident to resolve a number of issues, including the storage unit. We would like to reassure residents we are aware and dealing with this matter.”

The Echo approached the tenant for comment, but they declined.