THE CAMPAIGN to stop controversial plans to install mini roundabouts in Corringham Road, Stanford-le-Hope, is gathering pace.

Basildon and East Thurrock MP Angela Smith, has written to Thurrock Council while Terry Piccolo, chairman of public interest group the Hope Committee, held a public meeting attended by 40-plus residents.

The council is adamant mini roundabouts are needed, to stop speeding motorists.

Yet residents and Mrs Smith believe there has been a severe lack of consultation.

Mrs Smith wrote: "What consultation took place with residents? Does the consultation of three-and-a-half years ago have any legal bearing?

"I cannot believe any such consultation would be legally acceptable, and if this were the case, why was I not told?"

Mr Piccolo told residents at the meeting in the Crooked Billet pub, Stanford-le-Hope: "I believe you haven't been consulted correctly and you haven't had a chance to speak.

Yet council leader Terry Hipsey claimed the issue was being manipulated for political gain by Mrs Smith.

He said: "I appreciate not all people accept the proposed scheme, but for Mrs Smith to use this as an attempt to gain political divide is a disgrace.

"We have taken specialist advice and made the decision in the interests of quelling speeding traffic, which is the key issue."