CONTROVERSIAL car parking charges are to come into force in an Essex beauty spot from April 1.

Visitors to Dedham will have to pay to park in Duck Pond and Mill Lane car parks, following years of speculation the charges could be introduced.

Colchester Council has confirmed the charges will include £4 a day for visitors.

But Dedham businesses will each be given two free annual car parking season tickets.

Originally the council had proposed they pay £50 a year to park.

See Thursday's Gazette for the full story.