RESIDENT groups and campaigners across the borough are encouraging local people to take part in a consultation process currently being run by Thurrock Council to guide its policies on open spaces.

The information will help the council formulate its Local Plan, a formal document that will guide development in the borough until 2040. The plan has been much delayed but the council now hopes to complete publicatiuon and publish within the next couple of years.

Cabinet member for environment Cllr Andrew Jefferies says: "We know just how important green spaces are for residents, they are places to meet, exercise and enjoy the outdoors. That is why we want to hear from residents about the green spaces near them which are important to communities but are not currently designated as Local Green Spaces.

"This could be a local green or open space which is used for recreation, has particular historical importance or is a known local beauty spot.

"It does not include areas which are already protected such as parks, nature reserves or ancient woodlands. But we do want to hear about open spaces which are important to local communities and residents believe should be protected."

Cabinet member for regeneration, strategic planning and external r elationships Cllr Mark Coxshall, adds: "We want to make sure that Thurrock is a great place to live, work and play and green spaces are a vital part of that.

"The local plan is not just about building homes, it will shape Thurrock for the next generation. By nominating Local Green Spaces residents can ensure that they are protected and preserved for the community for years to come."

There are a number of open spaces in Thurrock which have already been highlighted. One of them, which local councillors want to protect is the Kilverts Field area in Grays.

And also in Grays residents on Parker Road and in the surrounding area are keep to ensure its local open space and play area ia preserved. Over recent years the land has been targeted by the council as a site which could be used to facilitate a local building programme, meaning much of the area would be lost to recreation for a number of years.

One of those keen to encourage local residents to take part in the survey is Paula Chambers who is encouraging the public to take part in the survey.

She says: "I live opposite a beautiful park, and we are trying to get it designated as an official green space. We need 500 votes, and the voting closes on 5th March, so we are running out of time!

"Residents, could you olease spare five minutes and pleadge your support and say why Parker Road Recreational Ground must be secured.

"Please click this link. Scroll in, and you will find Parker Road. The park is located at the top of Parker road, is a beige colour and has a few more individual circles. Follow the instructions on the left-hand side in the 'Nominate a Local Green Space Site'.

"I know this is a big ask, and it may seem like a big inconvenience, but where I live, many of our green spaces have been developed and are marked for development, and we are trying to protect this park for our children future generations."

More information and details of how to nominate a site can be found via this link.

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