Conservatives at Essex County Council are still planning to go ahead with a temporary park-and-ride scheme in North Colchester, although it is likely that congestion will be increased around Severalls Business Park and the surrounding area as a result.

Liberal Democrats questioned the cabinet member at a special scrutiny meeting, but were left unsatisfied that the plan can work.

Cllr Anne Turrell, Lib Dem County Councillor for Mile End & Highwoods, said: “"It'’s a waste of public money that is likely to make the situation worse than it is now. It'’s more likely to be park and jam. The county council has already spent over £100,000 on the abandoned park-and-ride site proposed for Eight Ash Green and I fear that money spent on this temporary site will fall into the same throw-away bin.

"The £600,000 planned for this temporary park and ride site, could be better invested in permanent public transport solutions that will give immediate relief to local residents and visitors."”