A GRANDFATHER has hit out at residents of a housing complex who are making his life a misery.

The pensioner, 76, who asked to remain anonymous, said drug users and thugs are causing him serious safety concerns at Nursery Flats, Southchurch Road, Southend.

He said: “There are people coming and going at all times and having fights and causing disruption. I can’t take anymore.

“There is a strong smell of cannabis coming from one of the homes and we can smell it in our flat, that’s not on.

“We have been woken up repeatedly by people swearing, shouting and even having fights near our home.

“I have grandchildren who come to stay with us and I am very concerned as they should not have to experience these sort of things.

“We also have friends over at times and worry that something else is going to happen and feel we live on the edge all the time.

“We have reported these problems to South Essex Homes and also to Essex Police, but feel nothing is being done.”

He said they should not have to live with these issues and wants action to be taken against the people causing such an impact on his life.

He said other residents have also repeatedly raised serious concerns over the goings-on at the housing complex.

He said residents should be checked before moving to the complex.

A spokesperson from South Essex Homes has said: “Officers door knocked at all properties in these blocks following reports of anti-social behaviour from residents.

“Some residents did indicate they had experienced problems.

“We will continue to make regular visits to the block and work with residents and the Police to tackle these matters.

“We would urge any residents affected to contact us with specific details of the nuisance that takes place as we need comprehensive evidence to enable us to take the appropriate legal action.

“We would also remind residents to make sure that they contact the police if they witness any criminal activity.”

An Essex Police spokesman said: "Working alongside colleagues at Southend Council and South Essex Homes as part of the Community Safety Partnership, we routinely take action against those committing crime and disorder whilst supporting those with vulnerabilities and ensuring they receive the support they need.

​ "We want to know about the issues which are causing the community concern and urge the public to report these to us, so we can take action. Information can be given to us by calling us on 101, independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or in an emergency always dial 999.

​"Following the recent concerns raised to us around suspected drug activity and antisocial behaviour in the Southchurch Road area, Southend, officers have patrolled the area and spoken with local residents. We will continue to work with our partners to proactively monitor the area and will take action against anyone who is committing an offence."