Petition submitted to Colchester Council over street preaching restrictions

A petition signed by over 27,000 people has been delivered to Colchester City Council, calling for the withdrawal of a Community Protection Notice (CPN) issued against the Bread of Life Community Church. The church, based in Clacton-on-Sea, has conducted public preaching for years, but local officials recently intervened, initially requesting lower volume levels before challenging the content of the messages. The church was subsequently issued a non-legally binding warning followed by the CPN.

Legal representatives from the Christian Legal Centre, which is supporting the church, argue that the use of a CPN against an entire congregation is unprecedented and threatens religious freedom. The church maintains that its activities have been peaceful and that no evidence of harassment exists. Pastor Stephen Clayden stated that the petition highlights public support for protecting freedom of expression and religious outreach. The church is currently appealing the notice, with a hearing scheduled at Basildon Magistrates’ Court for October 22.