A HASTINGWOOD woman is fighting on for "justice" after twice being told by Epping Forest Council that she cannot park her coaches outside her home even though she owns the land.

The council's area plans sub-committee turned down Ann Mingay's application for coach parking on the land at Newhouse Farm, London Road near the Moat House roundabout because it is in the Green Belt, and for highway safety reasons.

Following a survey, the county council objected to the proposal, saying the type of vehicles using the access would lead to further interference with the free and safe passage of traffic.

But Miss Mingay said: "This is ridiculous. I own the area and should be allowed to park my vehicles on it. But I will fight for justice."

She appealed against the enforcement notice which accompanied the first refusal, but it was put on hold while the second application was being decided.

She aims to lodge an appeal against the refusal shortly.

Miss Mingay, 46, who owns Trekkers Coaches, provides home to school transport for about 55 children who attend Leventhorpe School in Sawbridgeworth.

She started the company about four years ago and now owns three coaches. The service provided by her company has been very successful, as proved by a number of letters from parents to the council supporting her application.

John Ashton, of Theydon Grove, Epping whose daughter goes to the school said: "I'm supporting her because she's providing a very good service. When you're working it's difficult to drive your kids eight miles to their school in the morning. So if the service is forced to stop, we will be in a right predicament."

And Sharon Cooper, of Dukes Avenue, Theydon Bois, who has two daughters at the school, agreed with Mr Ashton. She said: "She provides a very reliable service and we would all be very disappointed if she has to stop this valuable service."

North Weald parish council did not raise any objections after being provided with information it had requested regarding the second application.

Miss Mingay said: "If I owned a car I would be allowed to park it outside my house, wouldn't I? Then why not the coaches?

"I'm hopeful of a positive outcome from my appeal. I would also like to thank parents for their kind support."

October 25, 2001 8:16