A CENTURY-old viewing platform has been plagued with “disgraceful” graffiti and litter, sparking calls for action to finally fix the Belvedere “eyesore”.

Sir David Amess, MP for Southend West, says the problem has only worsened through lockdown - with anti-social yobs gathering at the site on Cliff Parade before dumping rubbish, broken glass and syringe needles.

Sir David, who claims the “fiasco” has been going on for the past two years, visited the site to find the curved wall plastered in graffiti, swear words and filthy language.

Defending the historic platform, Lib Dem councillor Carole Mulroney hopes a public space protection order (PSPO) covering the cliffs along with community groups making use of the site could help deter trouble.

Ms Mulroney, who represents Leigh ward, said: “I know for a fact our parks department are actively talking to a couple of groups who are interested in using the Belvedere for outdoor classes, activities and that sort of thing.

“So there is interest no matter what some might say, and I’ve asked for the potential PSPO to include the cliffs to take action against people caught up there.

“You’d have thought the people who care about Leigh and its history would also want to save its heritage.”

Since plans to restore the platform were proposed in 2014, the project has seen unused and vandalised toilets ripped out, the platform lowered from road level, as well as stones dating as far back as 1911 uncovered from the undergrowth and reinstalled as bases in a seating area.

Sir David said: “The language and the behaviour at these anti-social gatherings are despicable and local residents should not have to put up with it. Enough is enough. It is not a thing of beauty, it is a complete and absolute eyesore. Most people would slip over and break their neck trying to get to the seated area.”

A consultation has been launched into a PSPO.

Steve Moore, director of neighbourhoods and environment, said: “The Belvedere is a retaining wall left when a toilet block was demolished.

"It was left at the request of local residents who wanted to preserve some of the history, such as the flagstones with wartime messages etched in them. While it is a popular area it is currently not designated for seating.

“As the site is the council’s responsibility we will be arranging cleaning and ongoing maintenance of the area and we would urge people to treat the site with some respect.

"There is no excuse for littering when there are many bins in the Leigh Cliffs area.

"We would ask that anyone who witnesses anti-social behaviour, including vandalism, reports it to the police on 101.”