RESIDENTS in Grays are being invited to have a say on plans to extend the Public Protection Order in the town centre which was supposed to cut down on problems caused by anti-social behavior.

In recent months there has been a reported rise in problems and the council – and police – have come under criticism for not doing enough.

At Wednesday evening's meeting of Thurrock Council's cabinet, council leader Rob Gledhill drew attention to a consultation the authority is currently running.

The council is considering re-applying and extending the current order which is due to expire on 31 March.

The order was initially introduced to address street drinking and anti-social behaviour in the area.

The council is seeking views from residents in the Grays Thurrock and Grays Riverside wards and also views from local residents, businesses and other key stakeholders on this proposal and says would appreciate feedback.

Cllr Gledhill said: "We are looking for an extension to the protection order. There is a consultation online and we want residents that use the High Street or just walk through to take part.

"We can't do this without resident input. Grays is going to undergo massive change in the coming years. Hopefully residents will go to the website and take part in the consultation."

You can visit the consultation via the red button below.