CAMPAIGNERS are celebrating after Thurrock Council halted its plans to sell off a parcel of land containing a bridleway.

Thurrock Nub News has reported on the efforts of local residents opposed to the sale of the strip of land adjacent to South Hill near Horndon on the Hill.

And today (Tuesday, 30 June) Orsett ward councillor Stephen Taylor has announced the council has considered the issues raised and have pulled the sale.

Cllr Taylor said: "Having been in contact with the Council's disposals team I can confirm that following a review of the site and the representations received, it has been determined that this land will not proceed as part of any disposal programme.

"The site has particular access requirements which make it unsuitable for disposal, and it has therefore been removed from consideration.

"I hope this puts campaigners at ease and demonstrates that your voices are heard."

One of the leading voices against the sale, who took part in a protest on horseback, is Ali Treadwell MacKenzie who passed on thanks to Cllr Taylor and said: "This is a victory for common sense and local people's wishes. It also shows that if you raise your voice and take action, sometimes you can be really effective. I would like to thank everyone who supported our campaign.