CAMPAIGNERS claim replacing a controversial quayside fence could be illegal after parts of it were removed.  

The metal fence at Mistley Quay was put up in 2008 by landowner TW Logistics to prevent people falling into the water.

The move sparked anger among residents, who claimed it was an eyesore.

The Free the Quay campaign group was launched in a bid to get the fence taken down.

About ten fence panels were removed over the bank holiday weekend.

Free the Quay campaigner Garron Baines said that although the fence is an “appalling ghastly structure that absolutely no one wanted”, no one in the campaign group would take down the fence illegally.

Mr Baines said: “On Saturday there was gathering of about 35 to 40 people, with some members from the Free the Quay only providing sustenance to the old gaffers who came down in four wooden boats.”

A barbeque then took place, joined by a shanty band.

Three police cars arrived to disperse the crowd, after the police were told there was a "riot”, according to campaigners. 

Shanty - Shanty music and a BBQ was held where the fence panels were taken downShanty - Shanty music and a BBQ was held where the fence panels were taken down (Image: Free the Quay)

A spokesman for Essex Police said: “Officers were called to High Street, Mistley, at 4pm on Saturday, August 24, to reports of criminal damage and a disturbance involving a large number of people.

“Our enquiries are ongoing."

Free the Quay member Christian Hobart said the Supreme Court ruled in 2021 the quay was a "village green".

"At the same time the court said we cannot dictate he move the fence," he said.

“But the landowner cannot interfere with putting back up that fence because that requires planning permission.”

Tendring district councillor Andy Baker said the council had been made aware of reports that fencing has been removed and “may have been replaced” at Mistley Quay. 

Mr Baker said the council applied a direction for part of the land at the quay in 2012, which means planning permission is needed for the "construction, maintenance, improvement or alteration of any gate, fence, wall or any other means of enclosing the land".

He said: “Our planning enforcement team has already started an investigation into the recent reports and shall be visiting the site to assess the position and will be contacting the owner of the fence.”

TW Logistics have been contacted for comment.