A DERELICT building has once again been the target of destructive vandals reining havoc on a Colchester estate.

The Trippier House building, in Blackthorn Avenue, Greenstead, has repeatedly been targeted by delinquents in recent months.

The former care home has become a hub of anti-social behaviour with eyewitnesses reporting seeing as many as 13 teenage louts relentlessly “causing havoc” near the premises.

And now tiles have been left smashed on neighbouring roads Veronica Walk and Jasmine Walk, while fencing has been knocked down and glass windows shattered.

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It comes as the site’s owners face impending enforcement action from Colchester Council unless they secure the premises.

Greenstead councillor Julie Young says residents are concerned about the continuous anti-social behaviour.

She said: “The site looks a mess and it is dangerous for anyone going in there.

“I have discussed the matter many times with the site manager but it seems to be going from bad to worse.

“They were given 28 days to tidy things up and secure the site but that hasn’t happened, and enforcement action will now follow.

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“I would love to see the site used for something worthwhile.”

Last month, a community meeting heard how Trippier House had been securely boarded while anti-vandal paint had been applied.

But fellow Greenstead councillor Tim Young says he has been left feeling disappointed by action taken by the site’s owners.

He said: “I was very frustrated to see Trippier House has been vandalised again, the owners simply haven’t secured or bordered it up properly.

“I do not condone the actions of the vandals - they are taking advantage of an unsecure, derelict site which nobody is taking responsibility for.”

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Mr Young added the incident comes at a time where anti-social behaviour has quietened down a little during the Easter break.

“I’m tempting providence here but things have calmed down a bit and I hope this will continue, but we need a lasting solution,” added the councillor.

“The youth club opened at the social club last week and this will hopefully distract those responsible and help them do something positive.”

The Gazette contacted the site manager at Trippier House but did not receive a response.