FRESH calls have been made for Colchester Council to stop using “dangerous” herbicides in parks.

The Glyphosate Working Group, created by the Colchester and District Green Party, has launched a report on the harmful effect of glyphosates.

The report was presented at the council’s Cabinet meeting and campaigners called on the council to switch to chemical-free, healthier alternatives.

Green Party councillor Mark Goacher said: “I have pushed for the council to stop using glyphosate with the public policy initiatives panel, the cabinet and within the conservation and environmental task and finish group.

“I’ve been told our council has concerns about the financial cost of switching to alternatives, such as Foamstream, which is herbicide-free.

“However, other councils, such as Glastonbury, have done so, and the costs can be reduced by using fewer sprays per season on areas where it is not absolutely necessary.

“Ultimately public health should come first.”

Last year, Mr Goacher made a Freedom of Information request which revealed the council was spraying glyphosate near children’s playgrounds in Colchester.

The herbicide has also been used at Castle Park.

The World Health Organization, in a report in 2015, concluded glyphosate “probably” causes cancer.

Steph Nisson, Green Party candidate for Castle ward, said: “The continued use of glyphosate in a public space where children play, such as Castle Park, is a matter of grave concern for all park users. The council must commit to ending its use.

“We want to make Colchester Council a shining example to Britain of the benefits of being greener.”

A petition calling for a glyphosate ban in Colchester, set up by resident Ceri Pritchett, has so far attracted 1,333 signatures.

Colchester Council leader Mark Cory said the council would like to see the end of the use of the herbicide, too.

He said the council’s task and finish group has a remit to look to phase them out, and councillors are waiting to hear back from the Royal Horticultural Association for recommendations on alternatives.