A THRONG of protestors gathered in Crouch Street to protest against plans being put forward by Essex County Council, which retailers argue is going to suffocate their businesses.

Close to 200 supporters of the Friends of Crouch Street group turned out on Saturday morning with 'Save our Street' placards as part of the demonstration, where business owners spoke of the damage Essex County Council plans to reduce parking spaces would do to their businesses.

As part of proposals to encourage greener forms of travel, County Hall plans to introduce cycle lanes in Crouch Street, cutting the number of parking pays from 23 to 11.

Business owners argue that would cut off a significant number of their customers who travel to Colchester by car.

Gazette: Kenneth Lo, of China Chef, and Tony Cheeld, of the Lexden Residents' Association, spoke to the crowds during the demonstration where they urged people to stand together in opposition to the plans.

Jim Clayton, a founder member of the Friends of Crouch Street group said in his speech that the bone of contention was not between bikes and cars, but about fighting for their community.

Gazette:

He said: “This is about us coming together to say no to an authority who want to impose a plan that we feel will damage our community.

“Worryingly, there appears to be a bigger fear of losing central government funding than the potentially disastrous consequences of pushing ahead with such a bad plan.”

Gazette:

Colchester MP Will Quince also gave a brief speech to the crowd, urging Lee Scott, cabinet member for highways maintenance and sustainable transport at Essex County Council, to reflect on the strength of feeling shown by the community.

He said: “I’ve looked at this scheme in great detail, and I just don’t think it’s right.

Gazette:

“We can question the consultation, but more than anything you’ve got to listen to the people that really matter – these businesses are the lifeblood of our town.

“Councillor Lee Scott will look with a fresh set of eyes at what is being proposed.”