MORE than 200 residents have signed a petition demanding that toilets are installed at Basildon’s town centre market as a matter or urgency. 

Steve Mullen, a 60-year-old from Langdon Hills, is a regular visitor to Basildon Market, where he often sits with a group of senior citizens outside Marta’s Kitchen and Café.

However, the lack of toilets nearby has become a regular issue for them. 

Mr Mullen said the nearest toilets are in the Eastgate Centre, but he fears it is too far for elderly people to walk, or for families with small children.

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He has now launched a petition to try and get new toilets installed at the market.

Mr Mullen said: “I started the petition around a month ago with my clipboard, and now have 225 signatures.

“The nearest toilets are up in Eastgate Centre which is too far for the elderly, young children and to be honest everyone visiting Basildon Market to utilise it.

“However, the toilets need to be maintained, cleaned regularly and accessible for the disabled too.

“The petition and idea started from something small, but after speaking to people, it has become a big thing.”

Mr Mullen plans to hand the petition in to the council offices this Friday.

He added how that having toilets would also also be a boost to the local economy.

He said: “I think having toilets would increase support for businesses at the market too.

“There are lots of great shops and stalls at the market, but there needs to be toilets for that to be utilised properly.

“It would make such a difference.

“Traders would really benefit too, and with the amount of signatures we now have, it is clear it is in demand.”

In response to the petition, a Basildon Council spokesman said: “We always listen to our residents, and we look forward to receiving the petition. 

“In line with the council’s policy, the petition will be referred to the relevant officers and cabinet member for consideration and response.