CAMPAIGNERS have vowed to fight plans to increase the amount of fuel and chemicals stored at a site on Canvey.

Bosses at Oikos, based in Haven Road, have announced proposals to install 12 new storage tanks for chemicals and fuels.

They said it is to meet the demand for plane fuel in south east England.

The amount which could be stored will go from 290,000 m3 of substance to up to 310,000 m3 extra of product. 

Furious residents say it must not go ahead and are urging as many people as possible to fight the proposal.

George Whatley, 78, of Limburg Road, Canvey, said: “They are roughly doubling or tripling the size of the plant. The danger is that we are the only area in the country to have two of these chemical sites so close together.

“This is the Oikos site and the Calor Gas site. If the worst case scenario happens, such as a disaster at one site, there will be a domino effect to the other site.

“I want to see these sites have a safe site policy which means the sites are regularly tested and if they are not proven to be safe then they would be shut down.

“This plan should not be going ahead and it is the affect on the homes that are so close that is the biggest risk.

“We do not have a fit for purpose evacuation plan [on the island] and, if something happened, residents would not get off the island. It will mean these chemicals are even closer to the homes and there is not enough protection now, so there won’t be for more chemicals.”

The furious island campaigner said he wants as many residents to help fight and stop these plans.

Tony Woodward, general manager of the Oikos site, confirmed the expansion plans and said: “This project will enable us to make a long-term contribution to essential fuel imports to the South East and the country as a whole.”

A firm spokesman said: “This project represents a continuation and an expansion of existing operations at the Oikos facility, which has an exemplary safety record.

“It also represents a significant investment into ensuring the provision of a safe and secure supply of fuels that are essential to the UK economy.

“As with any proposed infrastructure development, it is normal for the local community to have questions and concerns.

“We are just at the start of the planning for this development, and we are beginning a robust process of engagement and consultation with the local community.”

The spokesman added: “There will be many opportunities for people to contribute to the project and to help us bring forward a scheme which maximises benefits and minimises impacts for the local area and the community.”

The firm was unable to reveal exactly how much the operation will grow.

The firm is now preparing to carry out studies into the impact of the plans on the environment and wildlife.

A consultation will be launched alongside Castle Point Council.

Residents are invited to a drop-in session on Thursday, November 21 at the Paddocks.