Since April 2021, we have dedicated ourselves to creating a welcoming and thriving community hub at the Lightship Cafe in Grays Beach Park. Our hard work has not gone unnoticed, with visitors frequently expressing, "You have created a haven here." We have invested £46,000 from our own pockets to enhance the facilities and construct the Exmouth coffee hut, providing a much-needed service to our community.

Despite our significant contributions and the positive impact we’ve made, Thurrock Council is forcing us out under the guise of regeneration works. This is a deeply unfair and unwarranted move, especially given the absence of clear plans or dates for the supposed redevelopment. Until the council can provide concrete timelines for these works, it is unjust to evict us from our established and beloved premises.

Moreover, this eviction feels like a targeted attack, as we have continuously supported the local community, particularly the Hindu community, by offering free facilities and refreshments for the past three years. The council’s actions appear to be racially motivated, which raises serious concerns about their true intentions.

We are not against progress, but we believe in fair treatment and proper communication. All we ask for is clarity and a fair chance to continue operating until the regeneration works genuinely commence. We should also be allowed to operate from the Exmouth hut during this period to continue serving our patrons without interruption.

Please sign this petition to stand with us against this unjust eviction and to demand that Thurrock Council provides transparency, fairness, and respect to the community and all it serves.