THE threat to Thurrock schools crossing patrol services has been removed – Thurrock Council has announced.

There has been widespread concern about the threat to the service as cash-strapped Thurrock Council looked to cut its costs and there was widespread anger among local communities.

Thurrock Nub News has reported on the issue and residents' concerns, particularly about the messages the council was sending to schools and the borough's 'lollipop men and women'.

This evening (Wednesday, 14 June) the council's cabinet produced a significant U-turn and announced that the schools crossing service was safe for the foreseeable future.

Council leader Cllr Andrew Jefferies conceded that the council has not handled the situation well.

Portfolio holder Cllr Ben Maney said: "Cabinet had agreed to see if that service could be funded by the schools themselves or third parties in the borough.

"There have been discussions.

"The message to schools wasn't particularly well-worded and led to confusion. We will continue to look for alternative funding.

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"But if we cannot find it there are no plans to curtail that service."

Council leader Cllr Andrew Jefferies confirmed the situation, saying: "There will be no removal of the service. We do not plan to remove this service from the community!"

The cabinet meeting can be viewed via this link.