THURROCK Council's lack of care and engagement with residents has upset a ward councillor who has spoken of his frustration at procedural delays and bureaucracy.

The focal point of the issue is a large tree on Lampits Hill in Corringham, whose root growth is now causing damage to an adjacent property.

The property owners have been trying to find a resolution and correspondence between them and the council goes back around two years – yet matters seem to have barely moved forward.

The couple at the property have contacted independent Corringham and Fobbing ward councillor John Fox, who says he too has become frustrated at what appears to be a denial of responsibility.

And the council have confirmed to Nub News that despite the obvious damage and its cause, it is up to residents to prove their case.

The roots of the tree appear to have undermined wall which is cracked and leaning.

Nub News asked the council to comment on the situation and explain why it's taken so long to resolve and what the current situation is.

The council's response was: "Thurrock Council is aware of this matter. Officers have visited the home and spoken with the residents.

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"It is being handled by the council insurers who are in touch with the residents and have advised them of the next steps they need to take in order to evidence their claim.

"The insurers are currently waiting to hear back from them following that advice and information."

Cllr Fox says: "It is disappointing that the council chooses not to engage on a better basis. I don't think there's any doubt that the tree, which is on a public highway, is the responsibility of the council to maintain and it's equally clear its causing damage – which will continue to get worse unless the matter is resolved.

"It's this kind of bureaucracy and lack of engagement that frustrates so many people who question what the role of the council is and if it really does have the best interest of residents at heart."