A CONCERNED Thurrock councillor says he fears staff shortages at the borough council are impacting heavily on its enforcement roles.

Homestead independent councillor Gary Byrne, who is chair of the authority's Place Overview and Scrutiny Committee says he is concerned after being repeatedly told by residents, and officers when he makes enquiries, that low staffing levels mean breaches of planning and environmental rules are being ignored in many cases.

Cllr Byrne says: "This week following up on a planning enforcement complaint, I am told there are no planning enforcement staff at TBC, one left this week, though one is due to start soon. However, it's clear the department needs bringing up to speed.

"It means that currently the council empowers only one enforcement officer – and with holidays the council will have many weeks with no enforcement.

"Recently when I enquired about full litter bins I was told there is no holiday cover for street cleaners.

"I wonder how many other departments are not in a position to operate services due to running the business on bare bones.

"It seems we have no shortage of directors, deputies and high level management, but there seems to be a severe shortage of foot soldiers." 

A spokesperson for Thurrock Council said: "There is currently one vacant post for Planning Enforcement officers with two officers already part of the team.

"There is adequate holiday cover in the street cleaning team and all work continues on schedule no matter who is taking leave.

"The only vacancies in the teams that come under the Place directorate are those which have arisen when staff leave and recruitment to the role is taking place."