CAMPAIGNERS fighting controversial plans for a boutique cafe on the cliff-top at Holland on Sea are celebrating after the scheme was ditched.

Bosses at Tendring Council hoped the new cafe opposite Hazlemere Road car park would be a crowd-puller and help raise much-needed cash.

But objectors were up arms over the threat of building on the hallowed greensward.

Regeneration boss Giles Watling, who championed the cafe, claimed it would help tap into increased tourism from the new beaches, but has now backed down.

“Some did not want to see anything along the front there whilst others welcomed the café as a boost to the overall offer, especially for those who find it difficult to get down to the Lower Promenade,” he said.

“However, we did consult and the Holland Residents’ Association came out against the cafe so we have decided to move on and consider other options for the Clacton seafront.”

Holland Residents’ Association councillor Joy Broderick had spearheaded opposition to the cafe.

She welcomed news that the plan has been axed.

"That's wonderful," said Mrs Broderick "There was no market research or business plan done before deciding to put something like that there.

Clacton and Frinton Gazette:

  • Protesters claimed the scheme would set a "dangerous precedent"

"It would have been empty in no time and set a dangerous precedent.

"People don't spend four hours sat in traffic jams to come here and spend money in shops. They come with their buckets and spades to go on the beaches and that's where we need to spend the money."