A BATTLE to save Greenstead Children’s Centre from closure has been won, according to a determined campaigner.

County councillor for St Andrew’s ward Julie Young (Lab) said plans to stop sessions at the centre and move them elsewhere have now been shelved, following a meeting between parents who use the service and cabinet member for children Dick Madden.

Essex County Council announced plans to shut 25 of 37 children’s centres and slash the hours of others, and launched a consultation to get the views of residents.

Greenstead Children’s Centre was originally earmarked to be a family hub opened 50 hours per week, but recommendations in the post-consultation report said services would be relocated.

Mrs Young said she was delighted at the u-turn which comes after Mr Madden visited the centre on Tuesday and she has now been given assurances the centre will continue to run to exactly the same hours as it does now.

She said: “It is a massive victory for the community.

“I am delighted it is going to be staying open and pleased Dick was willing to listen and change his mind.

“It is great news mothers and fathers in Greenstead will continue to have a service which meets their needs.

“I think the mums who met with him on Tuesday did a fantastic job and nobody could have asked for more, they definitely rose to the challenge.

“He heard the message from the parents and the stakeholders of the community centre loud and clear.”

Fears had been raised Greenstead Community Centre would be shut down if the income from the children’s centre was lost.