RESIDENTS have raised concerns about crime and anti-social behaviour after plans were unveiled for a new homeless shelter in Pitsea.

The homeless shelter, if agreed, could be built at a Basildon Council site in Burnt Mills Road, Pitsea and would include 10 rooms and six “pods” for vulnerable people.

The site area is was formerly occupied by ITEC, an educational centre for training in the Digital and Technology sector but the firm moved to Canvey.

Roughly 60 residents have raised concerns about a potential increase in trouble,while Pitsea North West councillor Stuart Terson believes a more suitable location could be found.

He said: “Residents are quite angry about it and am surprised how many have raised concerns about it.

“I think the council could have done more in the past and agree it’s needed in the borough.

“I disagree that this it the best site and do not think it would be embraced when these people need just that.

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“I will be speaking against this at the meeting.”

If agreed, the central part of the building would be converted into offices, meeting rooms, a kitchen area and toilet.

The officers report said: “24 neighbouring properties were individually consulted, and a site notice displayed. 60 neighbouring responses have been received.

“Concerns have been raised with relation to crime and antisocial behaviour that may arise as a result of the proposal and comparison have been made to a nearby approved premises for young offenders as nearby residence are of the opinion that exoffenders will be placed at the site.

“Safety concerns over the type of occupants and the de-value of nearby residential properties.

“The concerns summarised within the representations are noted and they have been taken into account in the assessment of the application.

“However, they are not found to represent a reasonable basis to refuse planning permission in the circumstances of this case.”

Last February, roughly six tents were set up in Basildon’s Great Oaks Car Park, close to the town centre, with sheets hanging around tents as curtains and homeless people battling freezing conditions