THE smell of grilled meat and burnt charcoal said to emanate from a newly opened kebab shop has infuriated neighbouring residents and businesses.
The complaints relate to Mangal Express Charcoal Grill and Meze, which opened in Radford Way on Tuesday, November 13.
Dharmista Desai, the owner of nearby Anna's Off Licence, blames Basildon Borough Council for the perceived problem.
"The council should not have allowed it to open," she said.
"All the nearby residents petitioned but were ignored.
"Even Billericay council objected but in the end the plans were agreed by Basildon Council."
A borough council spokesman said: "There were no planning grounds to justify refusing this application, however, a number of planning conditions were imposed regarding ventilation and providing extra litter bins."
However, Mrs Desai, 55, said the council does not realise how it the smell affects her daily life – she claims that at times she cannot open the balcony door of her home.
Families living along the street say they have tolerated the smell since the shop opened.
Mrs Desai also argued that neighbours did not know how to make their opinions known.
A resident living above the takeaway claimed the smell of grilled meat filled his flat constantly.
The man, whom the Gazette agreed not to name, added: "I can even hear them talking, it is just a nuisance.
"The machinery makes the floor of my lounge vibrate; I can feel it through my feet."
He claims there were already problems with children hanging around late at night making noise because of Pizza Hut and believes that the takeaway has doubled the number.
Ismail Gaygusuz, the owner of Mangal Express, said he was willing to cooperate with residents.
Mr Gaygusuz, 48, said: "I do not want to disturb the residents.
"In fact, I would love my neighbours to come and discuss the issue with me."
He added he would be happy to get professionals in to look at the extractor fans in his shop.
Mr Gaygusuz, said: "I do not think the smell is bad. Customers follow the smell from the train station but of course there will be some people who do not like it.
"I had a piece of paper put through the door saying 'don't open' but I never told the police.
"I think it could be someone from another kebab shop who is jealous."
