CCTV cameras could be installed as part of longawaited plans to rid a Southend beauty spot of drink and drug abusers.

Southchurch Hall Gardens, which surrounds the Grade I listed Southchurch Hall, has been beset by problems down the years.

Labour councillors in Kursaal first highlighted issues with drugs and drink in the park three years ago, and now an email from Southend Council’s head of culture, Nick Harris, suggests that CCTV cameras could be imminent.

The email, sent to Labour councillor Judith McMahon, said: “I share your concerns that our parks should offer a safe and welcoming environment and I am keen to find a practical resolution.

“As a first step, I have requested that the park be assessed for the installation of a temporary CCTV camera.”

In May, a 23-year-old woman was raped in the park, which led to the hall, which doubles as a museum, closing for the weekend.

The park was also sealed off as residents raised concerns about safety there.

The subsequent investigation forced Southend Museums Service to cancel the final day of a Tudor Crafts event at the hall.

Previous calls to turn the gardens into an alcohol exclusion zone have fallen on deaf ears. Ann Jones, fellow Labour councillor for Kursaal, said: “There was a nasty attack there after the park was locked and it is written into our Labour manifesto we should strive to ensure safety in our parks.

“If the residents who live around there have requested CCTV, then I’m behind the plans to look into installing it.

“There has been temporary CCTV installed in Hastings Road and we have seen quite a change in behaviour there.”