A YACHT club has been ordered to cut down a 7ft-tall metal fence it installed illegally in a bid to deter vandals.

Chapman Sands Yacht Club, in Eastern Esplanade, Canvey, built the fence and gate, topped with spikes, to stop youngsters climbing over its jetty and jumping off.

The club was able to install the security measures using £8,000 from an £80,000 Veolia North Thames Trust grant.

The fence, which Castle Point Council confirmed had been installed without planning permission, has been branded a “dangerous eyesore”.

Michael Taylor, a theatre producer, of Eastern Esplanade, Canvey, claims the fencing fails to protect the jetty properly. He compared its appearance to a set of prison bars.

Mr Taylor said: “It doesn’t do the job that was intended, which is to stop youngsters from jumping off the jetty.

“It looks like Colditz, and I am staggered there’s been no fine or penalty as a result of the work being carried out. I understand the principle of the work being carried out, which is to protect people and the jetty. However the spikes are dangerous and people can still get on to the jetty.

“It should be taken down, and the club should start the process again from scratch.”

Chas Mumford, Tory councillor for Canvey East, said he has been inundated with calls from frustrated residents complaining about the fence blighting the island’s seafront.

He said: “When you see all the colourful murals and work to improve the beach from the volunteers, and contrast it with this, it’sareal shame to be honest.

“I think everybody can accept the principle at least, but it is hugely intrusive and the fact it was put up without permission adds insult to it all really.”

Andy Gosnold, who took over as commodore at the club in November after the work was completed, said the club is working to put the situation right.

He said: “I live opposite the club, and I understand the fencing may not be the prettiest thing to look at. However, we are resolving the problem and will be cutting the height down today.

“There was obviously a mix-up with our previous committee and the council, and we’re looking to have more regular dialogue with them to keep Castle Point updated with our plans.

“We are more than happy to speak with residents who have any issues they would like to discuss with us.”