An environmental pressure group has called for a referendum to decide the controversial issue of widening Priory Crescent in Southend.

Previous plans to use a slice of the park for a dual carriageway met with fierce opposition and were shelved by the council in favour of the latest scheme which involves buying up the forecourts of Lookers and the Royal Bank of Scotland building.

However, South East Essex Friends of the Earth claimed even the revamped plans to widen the road would having an "appalling visual impact" because of the loss of up to 60 mature trees.

A spokesman said noise levels would also increase without the dampening impact of the existing trees.

He added: "The council is on the run and faced with massive public protest they have backed down twice.

"But this is not enough. Local people remain bitterly opposed to the destruction of mature trees and despite assurances the council will not trash the park, large numbers of people simply do not trust them."

He said the council should hold a referendum.

Roger Weaver, council cabinet member in charge of transport, said: "We are having a full public consultation process when we hope to hear the views of local residents, businesses and those who work in the town."

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