Extra funding could be set aside for security patrols at community centres which are constantly falling victim to vandals.
The attacks on halls in Castle Point have led to a drop in usage and spiralling security and repair costs.
An escalation in incidents of anti-social youth behaviour over the past two years has left members of the public in fear for their personal safety and that of their property when attending community halls.
The situation reached a low point in March when a caretaker at the Paddocks, in Long Road, Canvey, was assaulted in the foyer of the building by youths, after trying to retrieve a tea trolley from the car park.
Numerous incidents of vandalism have been reported with a Weight Watchers instructor narrowly avoiding serious injury after a brick was thrown through a window of the Paddocks.
Members of the Benfleet Bridge Club had to stop using Richmond Hall, in High Road, because of sustained vandalism to their cars and constant abuse from youths outside.
Pressure from the public led to the council installing security guards at the Paddocks and Runnymede halls along with a mobile patrol covering the Hadleigh, Richmond and Woodside facilities. Such a service is estimated to cost around £52,700 a year and there is no provision in the council's budget for it.
However, head of leisure services Tony Galloway has recommended to the community services committee funding provisions be made in the council's budget for the rest of this and next year.
Members will meet next Tuesday, to discuss the recommendation.
Published Thursday, January 2, 2003
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