TRADERS have backed plans to bring in a radio system to combat antisocial yobs who are running riot in a busy town centre.

Basildon Council bosses are also set to back a proposal for a town centre radio link scheme in Pitsea, costing about £5,337.80.

The plan comes after businesses and traders met with councillors to demand action over a spate of bad behaviour in the town centre and the surrounding areas last summer.

The proposal would see businesses linked up and would allow information on troublemakers to be shared instantly between premises.

Craig Lawreniuk, manager of Pitsea Market, said: “I think it’s definitely a good idea.

“It will help businesses speak with each other and prepare for any antisocial behaviour and act before it happens.”

The 38-year-old added: “I think prevention is better than cure.

“I think it will help if, as a community, we all come together and fight this, then it is something we can stop.”

The council will meet tomorrow to discuss the plans.

A report set to go before councillors states: “Councillor Smith, as chairman of housing committee, has chaired a series of meetings with Pitsea Town Centre businesses to discuss their community safety concerns and identify opportunities for collaborative working to reduce the impact of crime and anti-social behaviour in this area.

“It is proposed for a radio link system to be established in Pitsea Town Centre and surrounding areas to alleviate the community safety issues that have been experienced by retailers, and for the costs associated with this to be met by community safety funding.

“There are presently 25 independent retailers within Pitsea town centre.

“In the event that all independent retailers express a desire to participate in the scheme this may lead to the committee being asked to fund an additional 15 radios, which would have financial implications of £2,750.”