A university could pull the plug on its Thundersley campus because staff feel "under siege" from vandalism and intimidation.

Prof Chris Green, the man in overall control of the Kiln Road site, told how the situation had escalated in recent weeks.

He said: "Over the last year what started out as a few incidents of vandalism have increased in intensity and frequency."

Incidents have included:

Bricks thrown through windows

Staff verbally abused by large groups of youths

Yobs drinking alcohol in the grounds of the building.

He said: "We feel like we are under siege. I would hate to see the end of what is a fantastic development. But if it continues we will have to consider whether it remains viable."

Anglia Polytechnic University took over the building, known as the White House, from Seevic College in September, 2000, leasing it from Castle Point Council. It runs several undergraduate courses, as well as training for trainee nurses and social workers.

Insp Paul Everett of Rayleigh Police said: "We are aware of the issue and Insp Chris Wood at Benfleet will be looking at tasking our beat team with trying to address the problem."

Published Thursday November 29, 2001