STEPHEN Metcalfe, MP for South Basildon and East Thurrock together with a representative from the Frost Estate Resident Association, met with Thurrock Council Chief Executive, Graham Farrant, last week to discuss the ongoing issues around the Frost Estate.
The conditions of the roads on the estate have long been a concern for local residents who fear that they will continue to deteriorate further if action is not taken. Mr Metcalfe, who organised a packed public meeting on the issue last year, has been working with residents and supported the establishment of the Frost Estate residents Association (FERA).
During the meeting the local MP expressed his support for FERA’s new 380 strong petition which calls on the Council to hold a referendum on creating a community council. It is now expected that Thurrock Council will start the statutory consultation process required before any vote can take place.
Community Councils, otherwise known as parish council’s, are the first tier of local Government and allow elected representatives to make the voices of local people heard. It is hoped that this would be a vital step forward in securing much needed repairs on roads in the Frost Estate.
Mr Metcalfe commented: “This is a fantastic step forward for Frost Estate residents. The Residents Association have worked tirelessly on this issue and I am delighted that they are one step closer to achieving their objectives.”
“This has been a problem for decades and I am delighted that we may finally be on a path that will see a sustainable solution achieved. I will continue to work with both Thurrock Council and FERA as this progresses and I look forward to seeing the results of the referendum in the near future.”
I doubt very much a Corringham Parish Council will be able to raise and spend public money on the private roads in the Frost Estate. If the residents of the Frost Estate want better roads then they will have to collectively put their hands in their pockets and pay for it.