THE deputy leader of Southend Council says the implementation of a road through the High Street “would not happen overnight” even if it was agreed - and could potentially be dangerous.

Business bosses have urged the council to scrap the pedestrianised High Street in a bid to revive the ailing shopping street.

James Courtenay attended the presentation by businesses at Sands Restaurant, and responded to claims the council was not doing enough to ensure the survival of the High Street.

In the last two months the council has announced initiatives including a ban on begging and homeless tents with a new public space protection order (PSPO).

The proposal included placing limitations on where homeless people can sleep to a “restricted area” in the town centre, and its “Make a Change” campaign to help people to live a life off the street.

READ MORE: 'Re-open Southend High Street to traffic... it's the only way to save it'

At the meeting, Mr Courtenay said: “The council has carried out several projects on the High Street, and I’m generally happy with the results, we are seeing improvements. To reintroduce the road would take a lot of work, it’s not something that can happen overnight. I am thankful to be invited to this presentation, and I want to work and talk with businesses and traders, but we are also responsible for making sure no one gets killed when walking down the street.”