ANTI-SOCIAL behaviour and littering could see a recycling centre close as calls mount for it to be turned into a car park.

South Green Recycling Centre, in Billericay, is a fenced area with large bins where glass, paper, and textiles can be dropped off for recycling.

A proposal to remove the site has been revitalised following a number of continued issues in the area.

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Basildon Council has now launched a short consultation to get residents’ views on the future of the site.

Andrew Baggott, leader of Basildon Council and councillor responsible for Burstead ward, said it has been an ongoing issue.

He said: “This was first brought to our attention four, maybe five years ago.

“Residents said there were anti-social behaviour issues, as well as with noise at ungodly hours.

“Parking is an issue by the shops too, so years ago we had the idea to move or get rid of the recycling centre, and create additional parking spaces.

“Then we had administration changes, and Essex County Council changed their stance, and so as it has been so long since the original consultation, we have to do it again, to check it is still something that residents want to happen.

“Extra parking would be a lot better, because shops there can’t service all the customers wanting to come in, and people are pit off because parking there is limited.”

The recycling centre dates back to before a roadside collection service was offered by Basildon Council.

Andrew Schrader, councillor for Billericay East, added: “Having grown up in South Green, I would think this area would be far better utilised to provide additional parking for South Green shops.

“The shopkeepers and residents complain about it, the noise, how people are loudly dropping stuff day and night.

“Meanwhile shop keepers are keen for more parking, which would make a big difference to the shops and customers.

“I have strong suspicions it is being used by people outside the borough too as we have a curb side services, so it is hard to believe residents are filling this up alone.

“I have heard people dump stuff there that isn’t even recycling, and when it is full, rubbish is still dumped anyway.

“These sites here and in my ward, just attract fly tipping and anti-social behaviour.”