MAJOR fire escape routes on a housing estate are being locked, leading to fears any blaze could become fatal.

Underground garages in Stebbings, Langdon Hills, are being secured due to concerns about property being stolen, but councillors and residents are now concerned about fire safety. The garages would be the only escape route if a home caught alight.

Don Morris, chairman of Basildon Council’s housing committee, said the council had been made aware of two incidents where fire doors had been screwed shut.

He added: “We are in contact with our fire safety consultant to establish whether there are any alternative measures we can take to protect residents, and are also liaising with Langdon Hills Estate Residents Association. Essex Police has been informed and we will continue to monitor the situation.”

Sherry King, 44, of Langdon Hills, who had to escape through a garage below her home with her family after a fire in 2015, echoed concerns about the dangers.

She said: “The garages could be the only way out for people in the event of a fire. It is very important these garages are left open. I know people are worried about people getting into the garages, so either way it’s not good but I think they should be open. If garages were locked and people could not escape it would be a disaster.”

Kerry Smith, county councillor for Langdon Hills, said: “I think Basildon Council needs to increase security at the garages, and then residents wouldn’t be forced to take matters in their own hands.”