Moves to make parents pay for a play scheme aimed at getting kids off the streets are "disgusting and disgraceful", it has been claimed.
Harwich Town Council said charging for Coastal Fun would exclude families who needed it most, and put the scheme's future in doubt.
Until now, Coastal Fun, run across Tendring to keep children out of trouble during the summer holidays, has been free.
But Tendring Council, which organises it, decided to charge a non-refundable £1.50 per child, per session.
Town and district councillor Lawrie Payne said: "I'm personally upset and angry.
"The benefits of letting children use this for free far outweigh any costs that could be brought in by it.
"We need to put it as strongly as possible that we can do without this taxation on our children."
Coastal Fun was originally set-up by Harwich Crime Prevention Panel and taken over by Tendring Council.
Garry Calver said Tendring Council had betrayed the panel's original idea.
Bill Bleakley, member of both Tendring council and Harwich Town Council, said there were problems funding Coastal Fun because people booked for events and then did not turn up, costing money.
Harwich Town Council has been asked to donate £1,000 towards the scheme, which some councillors felt uneasy about because of the new fees
The town council will write to Tendring Council expressing its opposition and will decide on the grant later.
Published Friday, May 16, 2003
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article