A SECOND independent has revealed growing tensions behind the scenes at the Civic Centre, claiming some councillors are at loggerheads with officers.

It comes days after Independent councillor Paul Van Looy quit the ruling coalition through a fiery letter, claiming the leadership would not “get rid” of “dead wood council officers”.

Fellow independent Brian Ayling has now claimed officers are preventing elected members from dealing with residents’ concerns.

Mr Ayling claims this has included him being prevented him from speaking at public meetings, being refused access to certain rooms within the council building and being refused financial details linked to the controversial Seaway Leisure development while he was chair of a scrutiny committee.

He said: “We have seen attitudes from some officers on the council that do not allow us to progress complaints and the frustrations of our residents.

“Councillor Van Looy will always express himself in a manner that exposes the truth of situations. This is not an insignificant matter as we are talking about millions of pounds of taxpayers’ money being frittered away by decisions that are removed from councillor scrutiny.”

Mr Ayling added previous claims from the council’s deputy leader, Ron Woodley is “another example of shutting up whistleblowers”.

The claims were supported by Conservative Party leader Tony Cox, who said: “Whilst there are undoubtedly many fine officers that do a lot of hard work and public service, there are some leaving all members of all groups suffering frustrations.

“These concerns have been raised by myself and others to the relevant people.”

But Mr Woodley said the problem lies not with council officers but with poor communication – something he is trying to improve.

He said: “What they are complaining about, or seem to be, is that over the last three years there has been a lack of cohesive communication on administration’s part as to what is going on.

“This is something we are addressing to make sure we are honest, open and transparent in our decisions.”

He said that he stands by his comments that councillors should not be criticising council staff publicly because they “cannot reply and cannot criticise the politicians when they feel aggrieved”.

Council leader Ian Gilbert added: “Council officers in Southend work hard and to a high standard. Councillors should refrain from public criticism and instead use internal processes to address any problems that arise.

“Officers do respond to the decisions of councillors and to the political leadership they are given by the leader and cabinet.

“This administration is providing that leadership and is intent on making changes where they are necessary. Even after ten weeks we have had some significant successes, and we will continue to drive positive changes through the year.”