Council could close park cafes to save money

Residents have warned closing the cafes could reduce income from car parking fees

Cafes in a county's parks could be closed as part of a cost-cutting plan by a council.

Essex County Council said the closure of the facilities at Belhus Woods in South Ockendon, Cudmore Grove in East Mersea, along with Great Notley and Weald Country Parks would ensure they could remain financially sustainable.

Some Essex residents have criticised the proposal, arguing the cafes are a reason people visit the parks and visitor numbers will drop if they are closed.

The authority said no decision would be made before the issue is discussed at a meeting on 4 November.

Ann Cardus, an Essex resident, said: "The income you get from the cafe is not just taken through the cafe.

"People will also spend more on parking because they're spending more time in the park, and also some people will be visiting the park only because there is a cafe.

"You get rid of the cafe, you reduce the number of people who will visit the park. There will be a parking revenue that will not be factored into the calculation."

A petition from Michelle Giddons against the plans has registered more than 1,800 signatures since it went live on 2 October, according to Local Democracy Reporting Service.

It said the cafes were "vital gathering spaces for families, local clubs, and community groups".

A spokesperson for Essex County Council said: "We recognise the value cafes add to Belhus Woods, Cudmore Grove, Great Notley and Weald Country Parks. However, we must also ensure our country parks remain financially sustainable so everyone can continue to enjoy them.

"No decision has been made on this proposal, with our cabinet members due to discuss it in a meeting on November 4."