COUNTRY Park cafés earmarked for closure under cost-cutting plans are to stay open, the county council has said.

That means a reprieve for popular sites including Belhus Woods, which the county council runs on behalf of Thurrock.

Having considered closures, Essex County Council says it appreciates the value its cafés add to its sites at Cudmore Grove, Great Notley and Weald Country Parks, as well as Belhus, but it says it has a responsibility to ensure the parks remain financially sustainable.

More than 870,000 people visit the parks each year, and the plan had sparked backlash from Essex residents, who say the cafés are one of the main reasons people visit the parks in the first place.

They say closure of the cafés will result in fewer people visiting, with a corresponding reduction in parking income.

The county council, which is currently in the process of drawing up its budget proposals for next year, said the decision was made after exploring financial running costs, community value, and potential savings.

Councillor Mark Durham, Cabinet Member for The Arts, Heritage and Culture, said: "I am delighted with the decision to keep these valuable café facilities at our country parks open. Over 870,000 people enjoy these stunning green spaces every year, which benefits both mental and physical health.

"The cafés are enjoyed by many groups of visitors, from young parents to the more vulnerable and elderly. This decision means that they can continue to have a welcoming place to meet at our country parks."

An Essex County Council spokesperson said: "We are pleased to confirm that, after careful consideration, we have agreed to keep the cafés at Belhus Woods, Cudmore Grove, Great Notley and Weald Country Parks open.

"The decision was made after exploring all the options, including the financial running costs, the community value and potential savings. It will ensure we continue to deliver the best experience for residents at our country parks."