A THURROCK councillor is calling for one last push to try and overturn the authority's decision to start charging for parking at Coalhouse Fort at East Tilbury.

The move has been widely decried by borough residents, as has the implementation of fees at a number of other recreational sites across the borough, but the council has pressed ahead regardless with its fundraising measures.

A traffic regulation order granting itself permission to charge has reportedly been signed off by the council's director of public realm Julie Rogers, though it hasn't been published yet.

But East Tilbury ward councillor Frasey Massey, who is inscensed by the decision to charge at the area's historic attraction, says people can still object under the terms of the notice.

In an appeal to residents he has asked them to oppose the scheme, saying: "Do you feel it is right for Thurrock Council to charge for parking at Coalhouse Fort?

"I don't think it is!

"The TRO has been signed but comments can still be made to try and stop it. The council has to consider them.

"Any objection to the proposed order must be made in writing, giving the grounds on which it is made and sent to the following address: Parking Team, Civic Offices, New Road, Grays, RM17 6S or by email to [email protected]

"They must arrive before 1 October.

"We have to believe that we can still force a change of opinion on this."

Last month Thurrock Nub News reported on residents' concerns about fees and the impact it will have on the village as the council went to work to resurface the dilapidated car park.