IT HAS been argued over for decades, yet despite a breakthrough nearly a year ago, the future of a neglected plot of land in Ongar is still uncertain.
Despite agreeing to buy the Essex County Council-owned lorry park off Greensted Road for the nominal fee of £1 in April 2012, Ongar Town Council has still not completed the deal.
The issue came up again at the town council meeting last week yet the matter still remains unresolved.
Over the years, the site, which has been used as an unregulated car park for more than 30 years, has become potholed and is used as a dumping ground for rubbish.
Former town councillor Bob McDonald said this week: "After decades of neglect, mismanagement and prevarication at county and district level, Ongar Town Council seems to be continuing in the same vein.
"Having spent thousands on legal and professional advice over the last few years Ongar Town Council still seems to be unable to make a decision.
"In the meantime the potholed, free-for-all rubbish tip at the southern end of the town continues to be the number one eyesore in Ongar and, at the present rate of progress, looks destined to remain so for decades to come."
He added: "In my opinion this council are spending too much time 'confiding' and 'receiving reports' rather than making decisions."
Delyth Armes, manager at Senners of Ongar in the High Street, said: "I know a lot of people use the land for parking in its current state.
"It gets quite busy and is definitely useful as a car park especially for people working in the town.
"The parking is needed so it would be a shame if the council bought the land and turned it into something else."
Ongar Town Council clerk Aimi Middlehurst said: "The town council is continuing to liaise with Essex County Council. The council does not wish to make any further comment."
