CAMPAIGNERS are accusing Southend Council of “environmental vandalism” by using a “toxic” weed killer which is “killing dogs”.

More than 100 people have signed a petition calling on the council to stop spraying the weed killer on walking routes.

The campaigners say the substance, which is also being used in children’s play areas, is linked to cancer and serious dog illnesses.

Dog owners and campaigners have now raised safety fears, with one paying £1,600 on vet bills.

Carl Hanser, 44, from Shoebury, who started the petition blasted the council for “environmental vandalism”.

He said: “I am very pleased with the support for the petition and it’s been fantastic.

“The council has decided to poison parts of East Beach in Shoebury and took the financial and environment decision which is to the detriment of the area.

“It’s entirely unnecessary and shows a total neglect of the wildlife when we have a number of species unique to this area.”

He said if dogs ingest the weed killer it would have a big impact. He claimed other authorities have banned the substance after risk assessments and campaigners’ demands. Council bosses have previously said they are in talks to find a replacement to the weed killer, used in many roads and near East Beach Shoebury.

Sally Horrigan, from Shoebury, says it is linked to her two Cane Corso dogs becoming sick.

She said: “If they keep using it we will see more dogs becoming severely sick.

“I hope this gets taken further and we will not back down and keep pushing. My dog is doing better now and well on the mend but is still on medication.

“It’s also big issue is how people do not know it’s being done and it looks horrid and makes the grass yellow.”

Steve Moore, director for neighbourhoods and environment at Southend Council, said: “We have been made aware of a petition started by residents regarding the use of products for weedkiller.

“It is important to stress that we work within current regulations and carry out work with products approved by Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs and Health and Safety Executive.

“We welcome hearing the views of our residents on this and will await further details of the petition.”

To sign the petiton see www.democracy.southend.gov.uk/mgEPetitionDisplay.aspx?Id=39