Protesters have been warned to accept a huge waste plant in Basildon whether they like it or not.

Essex County Council is running an exhibition into its proposals for a mechanical, biological treatment and recycling plant at Courtauld Road, Basildon, across the district until February 15.

Conservative Peter Martin, executive councillor for planning, said despite a 4,000-plus name petition, residents views would be taken into account, but the plant would be built regardless.

The exhibition is a final chance for residents to comment or object to the plans for the plant which will treat waste from across south Essex and Epping Forest before a decision is made by County Hall.

Mr Martin said: "The exhibition is giving residents a chance to comment on the planning application, but subject to planning permission a plant will have to be built on this site."

Minor changes since the last consultation include moving composting areas further from the Hovefields Caravan Park, making it more environmentally friendly by using its own rainwater, tracking lorries to ensure they stick to designated routes and improving lighting in Courtauld Road.

Few people attended the first few days of the exhibition in Brisco Primary School, Felmores, but numbers picked up over the weekend when it moved to the Eastgate Centre.

Rob Hill, chairman of Northlands Park Residents' Association, said: "I can't see a lot that has changed with the original application, except the number of lorry movements appears to have gone up.

"We will be arranging a public meeting soon and inviting county hall representatives."