CRITICISM has been poured over fencing surrounding a community building at the centre of redevelopment plans.

Serious flaws were found by Lib Dem councillors who went down to inspect the fence which had been put around the empty Hutton Community Centre, in Harrison Close.

These included gaps between railings big enough for grown men to squeeze through, a gate wide unlocked and wide open and the fence not reaching all the way round the site.

The venue has been earmarked for redevelopment with £165,000 funding set aside by Brentwood Council for the project.

However, opposition leader Barry Aspinell feels the fencing put up by a company run by Conservative councillor Keith Parker simply is not good enough.

Mr Aspinell said: “It is a total shambles. The fencing was supposed to be erected as a matter of urgency, but what has been put up would not stop much if anyone was determined to get through or over.

“Even if they put a lock on the gate was locked up, it would quite easy for someone to get over the fence which is supposed to be helping protect the premises.

“I do not think it was thought out at all before being put up. When I went down to the centre and saw the fencing I just laughed because it was just ridiculous to think that the fence would deter anyone.”

Council bosses have said since being made aware of the issues with the fencing, they have made sure the structure is fit for purpose.

John Kerslake, councillor responsible for performance and resources, said: “The work to erect fencing around the Centre was finished last Friday and padlocks were fitted yesterday, Monday.

“We are confident that the site is properly secured.”

Once redeveloped the venue which is currently boarded up will be offered to community groups to use.