Residents fight to preserve Leavesden's 'green oasis' (From Watford Observer)

Residents fight to preserve Leavesden's 'green oasis' between Hill Farm Avenue and Hill Farm Close

5:00pm Sunday 27th January 2013 in News By Rebecca Perring, Reporter

Residents and councillors have vowed to continue the fight against plans to bulldoze a children’s play area in order to build a dozen affordable new homes.

Watford Community Housing Trust submitted plans to build six houses and a three storey block of flats between Hill Farm Avenue and Hill Farm Close in Leavesden, but these were refused by Three Rivers District Council in December.

However the trust has confirmed it will be putting in an appea by the end of this month.

Residents and councillors have campaigned against plans due to a "loss of a green oasis" and nearby play area leaving children without somewhere to play.

On hearing the news of the appeal, Woodside councillor, Ian brown, said it was "disappointing."

He said: "This is disappointing but not an unexpected decision.

"Watford Community Housing Trust seems to take no notice of the local residents and local council.

"We will fight hard against this again."

The plans to be appealed include a grass play area of a size equivalent to a five-a-side football pitch, and a landscaped play area.

The development, which would be half social housing and half affordable rent would fulfill the demand for affordable housing and the plans were recommended for approval by Three Rivers District Council planning officers.

However residential campaigner Brian Folgate said the space is simply "too small" for the over developments.

Mr Folgate, 43, said: "This is a community space, where children play safely. I am 100 percent in opposition to this appeal and we will fight it again.

"This is a green oasis and we have children come from other estates to play here. It is perfect for football and cricket and other activities for all the residents to get involved in.

"If houses were to be built, they would have nowhere else to play."

Gareth Lewis, director of property and new business at the trust, said: "The trust has carefully considered the situation, but on balance we feel that the scheme as proposed offers benefits in terms of good recreational and play facilities as well as meeting the ever-increasing need for new affordable homes.

"Therefore we have decided to proceed with the appeal which we aim to lodge by the end of the month."