A HUGE truck stop with space for 200 lorry drivers and a cafe could be built close to one of south Essex’s busiest interchanges.

Developer Bradon Ltd has asked Basildon Council if it would require an environmental impact assessment if it were to submit the application for the site off the A127.

These requests are usually a precursor for a full application being made.

The application details that the site on Morbec Farm would have 200 lorry parking spaces for overnight stays, an “amenity building”, cafe and a training centre, with EV charging points.

The site would be on the green belt, with the facilities solely for the use of lorry drivers.

Wickford Park Tory councillor, George Jeffery, has called on both Basildon Council and Essex County Council to ensure that the concerns of residents are taken seriously amid worries about potential disruption at the Fairglen Interchange.

Mr Jeffery said: “There are a lot of small businesses in that area, I think the main thing is the council must get in touch with people in nearby Cranfield Park because while it is being constructed there will be severe road traffic.

“This is a very important arterial road. Essex County Council should be seeking all necessary contributions to infrastructure.

“What you are doing here, in essence, is adding to car journeys to the A127 so good luck reaching Southend in good time.”

The site identified in the screening option is just outside of the busy Fairglen Interchange on the A127, which has been identified by Essex County Council as a major accident site, requiring improvement works.

Mr Jeffery said: “The plans must be informed by how close they are to the Fairglen Interchange, and we should not be looking to give away our green belt piecemeal. It has been set aside to prevent urban sprawl.

“People must be encouraged to respond, Basildon Council should engage with people on this, and we mustn’t ignore anyone, it is unfair and unreasonable.

“I hope Essex County Council consults with residents as well on this.”

The screening option is currently awaiting decision by Basildon Council.

The Echo has reached out for comment to the developers and architect behind the submission.