A COUNCIL is seeking permission from the courts to remove a homeless camp from a cemetery.

Southend Council secured an injunction order to remove people on Friday but they haven’t left.

Now the council is seeking a warrant to send in the bailiffs to North Road Cemetery.

Leader John Lamb said: “For several weeks, the council has been aware of individuals camping in North Road Burial Ground, giving rise to correspondence from residents concerned for their welfare as well as complaints from people visiting the burial ground.

“We have repeatedly tried to engage with those camping to move them into suitable accommodation, where support is available to address their needs or reconnect them to their local area where they can receive help.

“Unfortunately, those remaining at North Road have refused to engage with our services and also refused to leave the burial ground.

“On Friday the council secured possession and injunction orders from Southend County Court and served them on the campers the same day.

“The possession order requires the campers to leave North Road Cemetery and the injunction order prohibits them from returning in future.

“We will continue to try to engage with – and offer support services to – those individuals in an attempt to help them turn their life around.

“As of this morning, the campers were still present. In order to legally move them on, the council is now applying to the courts for a warrant of possession so that bailiffs may set a date for eviction.”

Zoey Smith, 33, co-founder of One Love Soup Kitchen in Great Eastern Road, Southend, said these people need support.

She said: “I know one person who camped there and he wasn’t treated very well.

“I find it really difficult as they need somewhere safe to go and stay.

“I understand concern from residents but they do need help.

“I do think they should clean up after themselves and I do not agree with them leaving all their rubbish and mess behind.

“I do think their needs to be a bit more compassion when dealing with people like this.”

It has been an ongoing issue at the cemetery in Southend and it has caused anger in the community.

Those with loved ones at the cemetery have become angry at the disrespect shown including some tents placed on the graves of people much loved and missed.

Residents have applauded the council for taking action.

While many want services to help the homeless there has become an increasing anger at some of the places homeless people have set up camp.

If the warrant is granted, which is expected, it will be the second camp cleared in a month.

One of those who is hoping the cemetery is cleared is Dave Lewis from Westcliff.

He said: “I’m really pleased that at last the council are dealing with this issue.

“I do hope that they clear all the mess that will be left and also remove the old sofa that is still under the old bicycle shelter near the gate.

“I also deeply hope that the people being moved out get the required help and assistance they need to find a temporary accommodation until they can get a permanent place to live.”