A THURROCK park could lose its café as part of a council cost-cutting exercise.

Essex County Council has proposed a significant cost-cutting plan to shut cafés at a number of parks it runs.

One of them is Belhus Woods, which is in Thurrock but is run by the county council.

The authority says says it appreciates the value the cafés add to its parks, but is looking at axing the one at Belhus as well as at Cudmore Grove, Great Notley and Weald Country Parks. It says it has a responsibility to ensure the parks remain financially sustainable.

The plan has sparked backlash from residents, who say the cafés are one of the main reasons people visit the parks in the first place.

They say closure of the cafés will result in fewer people visiting, with a corresponding reduction in parking income.

The council said no decision will be made before the topic is discussed at a meeting on November 4. A petition has already been set up to save them.

Concerned resident Ann Cardus said: "The income you get from the café is not just taken through the café. 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 café.

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"You get rid of the café, 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.

"There's been no determination about what people feel is an important thing and what is a reason to visit the park."

A petition from Michelle Giddons against the plans has registered more than 1,800 signatures since it went live on Saturday, October 2. It said the cafés are "vital gathering spaces for families, local clubs, and community groups"

It adds: "They are more than just places for refreshment; they are the very fabric that holds our communities together, fostering relationships and interactions that contribute to our social well-being. They provide a safe haven where members of the public can meet, celebrate, and collaborate, all while surrounded by the natural beauty of Essex."

Another user, named Martin, said: "The visitor centres are a key part of the enjoyment of a visit to Essex County Parks and serve a large cross section of Essex residents – and those from neighbouring boroughs and counties – in an area with an ever-expanding population.

"While all councils are hard pressed for funds unless there is a material financial saving at each of the centres that may close, it is a false economy to close them and reduces the facilities provided for council taxpayers who may not use other council provisions."

A spokesperson for Essex County Council said: "We recognise the value cafés 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."

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