FED-UP residents say they are frustrated with their housing association for failing to repair a lock at their bin shed which has led to suspected drug dealing and antisocial behaviour.

Luke Cheshire, 34, lives in Wootten House, Cherrydown West, Basildon, and claimed he has complained to Genesis Housing about a broken lock at the bin shed for several months.

Mr Cheshire, a bank analyst, said he warned the housing association that if the lock remains unfixed it would attract unsavoury characters who could use the space for the wrong reasons.

He said: “Wednesday was the first time I saw people coming into the bin shed. A neighbour and I saw two people at around 2pm. We told them to leave and they said they would. I could smell drugs, so they were clearly taking it, and possibly dealing too.

“I left for work and when I came back around 5pm there were six of them there. They left shortly afterwards.

“I suspect they’ve slept there for a while. There’s a wooden pallet in the shed for a few weeks. I think the sleepers have been using it.

“I also found sleeping bags stuffed behind the bins. It’s very dangerous, you don’t know who these people are. I need to walk my wife to her car to make sure she’s safe.”

A Genesis Housing Association spokesman said: “The bin doors were fixed and adjusted last month, but unfortunately the lock could not be fully tested on that date and an issue later arose with damage to the locking mechanism. A locksmith has attended the development this afternoon to fit a new lock and keys are being delivered to all residents.

“Genesis staff visited the site yesterday to inspect and clear the bin shed and speak to residents, and we will continue to monitor the situation to ensure the area is kept secure and clean. We would like to apologise to residents for the inconvenience caused.”