A COUNCIL plan to introduce a taxi rank in the centre of Southend has been thrown into doubt after Essex Police labelled the plan “unwise”.

Southend Council is considering introducing a permanent taxi rank in Warrior Square and has been taking feedback from various organisations across the borough.

As part of that, Essex Police wrote to the council to raise a series of objections, including concerns that it will hinder the movement of emergency vehicles. The space would be dual use, with taxis using it from 7pm until 7am on weekdays and from 1pm until 8am on weekends. The rest of the time it will be a loading bay.

Essex Police say if it goes ahead it will “prohibit the movement of vehicles not engaged in licensed taxi activities – including emergency vehicles”, it would also affect CCTV monitoring, hinder efforts by nightclubs to prevent people gathering in the area and restrict nightclub evacuation plans.

A letter sent to the council by Southend’s Community Policing Inspector Ian Hughes, notes: “I am aware that this location has been used by taxis to pull up intermittently for many years, however I personally feel agreeing to this to be a permanent site is unwise.”

The inspector added it would also not be in line with “licensing objectives”.

The council’s deputy leader Ron Woodley insisted the objection does not mean the plan has to be abandoned, saying: “We do need to consider every reason for an objection but some points we are already addressing. One issue raised by the police is about the impact this could have on CCTV monitoring but we are reviewing our CCTV system in the borough anyway.

“It is up to the licensing committee to take their view on board and make a decision.”

The debate over the Warrior Square taxi rank comes as the council confirmed it has also rearranged bus stops and taxi ranks outside Southend Hospital following concerns raised about safety on Prittlewell Chase.

In August, councillors approved a plan to move hospital bus shelters 100m west of their previous location to make sure passengers are not left crossing the road when there is heavy congestion. The taxi ranks have also been rearranged. Mr Woodley said he is “pleased” the works has been completed.

and am confident these changes will benefit bus users, those needing taxis and also drivers who use this stretch of road, which is one of the town’s main thoroughfares.”

The installation of the Warrior Square taxi rank will be considered by a licensing committee on Friday morning.