Angry pensioners voiced their discontent at a heated meeting called to discuss the future of a day centre.
More than 100 members of the George Hurd Centre in Fauners packed a meeting, the majority of whom objected to a possible relocation of the facility to Frypa Hall in Fryerns.
The move would be financed by developers who would are keen to turn the Hurd centre into flats.
Christine Nurse, community operations manager of Basildon Council, explained why the move was necessary, and said: "This building is 38-years-old and past its sell-by date.
"The original roof only had a ten year life expectancy and the windows are rotten and would cost £100,000 to replace. It has cost £71, 000 to maintain the building in the last five years."
However, these explanations were greeted with cries of "rubbish" and "we don't want to move".
Jack Matthews, 78, of Quilters Straight, Fryerns, said: "Have the council thought of public transport to the Frypa Hall? The two nearest bus stops are at least half a mile from the centre, is that fair for our members?"
The result of the meeting will be reported back to a future council meeting before a decision is taken.
Published Monday May 24, 2004
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