Residents were torn over the latest plan to redevelop parts of the Five Links estate.

Basildon Council held a public exhibition at Laindon Community Centre, where residents could look at detailed designs and speak to the planning team.

The third phase of regeneration at Five Links will involve knocking down 41 original homes and building 186 new flats and houses.

Roy Falkoner, 64, of Mellow Purgess, was firmly in favour.

He said: "It's a brilliant idea and will be the answer to all my problems.

"They're getting rid of a car park that backs onto my garden, which is great because we have had terrible problems with youths who gather there, throw stones and tear down fences.

"A lot of the housing around here has been neglected for years and looks terrible.

"Hopefully people will show a bit more civic pride, if they rebuild it."

Vikaash Ramjeeowan, 28, of Cross Courts, was also in favour "in principal."

He said: "Lets face it, the estate looks pretty depressing at the moment and could do with a makeover.

"I'm not happy though that our garage will be knocked down to make way for housing. You are better off locking up your car in Five Links because of all the crime."

Vivien Howard, 49, of Cross Courts, said: "I'm not sure they've thought enough about parking.

"It doesn't look like there will be enough spaces f or everyone.

"It will be pot luck whether or not you'll get a parking space when you get home from work."

Sandy Trimmer, 35, of Newbury Side, said: "I think the whole thing's disgusting.

"They're building flats behind our house and there is going to be a rubbish bin shed at the bottom of our garden.

"It will smell terrible in the summer and stop us having barbecues."

Rab Fullon, Basildon Council's housing strategy manager, claimed the overall response at the exhibition was positive. He said: "We will take people's concerns on board and try to iron out any problems.

"We removed all residents' garages in the parts of the estate which have been redeveloped so far, yet car crime still fell by 30 per cent.

"That's because we installed better lighting and ensured people can park closer to home. We also installed more windows in people's homes, overlooking the parking areas."