A PROBE has been launched into the disruptive blackouts which have plagued Old Leigh.

For many years, residents and businesses have endured power cuts, and although improvements have been made as the area gets busier, the power still regularly fails.

Since the summer, Southend Council has made it a priority to make sure the power grid is sustainable for the future, and is asking those who have been affected to come forward and share their experiences, with the hopes of collecting more information about what’s happening.

Carl Robinson, director for public protection at the council, said: “Unfortunately there’s an issue in the area of Old Leigh with a disruption of power which sometimes causes blackouts.

“We need to gather this information to help address the balance between the continuing needs of the tourist and fishing industries in the Leigh port area, with the challenge of climate change.

“It’s hoped it will be possible to plan a clean energy future for Leigh that will secure business and jobs in the area, while maintaining the unique, attractive character for generations to come.”

Two events will be held to map out the limitations of energy in the area. Tomorrow, between 11am and 5pm, an information gathering workshop will be held at Ye Olde Smack, where residents will be able to discuss any issues they’ve had. They will also be able to find out how how to reduce their energy usage to help save money and reduce the carbon footprint.

In addition to this, Southend Council has asked Siemens to investigate the energy infrastructure in the Leigh and Two Tree Island areas.

Residents, businesses and visitors are being asked to take part in a short survey about the existing electricity network.

Councillor Carole Mulroney, from the St Clement’s ward, said: “I’ve been aware of this periodically happening for a while now. There’s been talk if inefficient energy supply down there in Old Leigh, which is affecting businesses and residents.

“If there’s an ongoing problem it needs to be looked into. Hopefully the investigation will be a step in the right direction to resolving it.”