Essex leaders call for ‘breathing space’ in Epping after summer of protests

The Bell Hotel in Epping became a focal point for protests over summer (Jordan Pettitt/PA) - (PA Wire)

Local leaders in Essex have called on protesters who have been demonstrating in Epping to give the town some “breathing space”.

In an open letter, political leaders for the area have said that while they acknowledge the right to peaceful protest, Epping residents’ lives have been “upended” by a series of protests surrounding the Bell Hotel.