Essex County Council cabinet members are set to discuss a proposal to shut the cafes at several of its parks at a meeting on November 4, a spokesperson has confirmed.
This includes the cafes at Weald Country Park in Brentwood, Belhus Woods in South Ockendon, Cudmore Grove in Colchester and Great Notley in Braintree.
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The council spokesperson emphasised that no decision has been made yet on this proposal.
They told the Recorder: “We recognise the value cafes 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.”
It comes as a petition to stop the proposal has gained traction on Change.org, totalling almost 2,000 signatures at the time of writing.
The petition mentions the closure of visitor centres as well as cafes, however the council did not make it clear whether visitor centres are included in the plans.
Petition starter Michelle Giddons urged the council to “reconsider” shutting these “vital community resources”.
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On the petition webpage Ms Giddons said: “These visitor centres and cafes serve as vital gathering spaces for families, local clubs, and community groups.
“We understand the need for fiscal responsibility, but not at the cost of public safety and social wellbeing.”
Other residents have commented on the petition, sharing stories of catch-ups with friends and family at the cafes.
