A plan to change a field in Abbots Langley from argricultural land to public open space has been unanimously passed despite objections from residents.

Three Rivers District Council members overruled residents' fears that the change of use could lead to more houses being built on the land near South Way.

The approval included the requirement that within 12 months a long term landscape management plan, including long term design objectives, timescales and maintenance schedules, shall be approved.

Now the land is in Three Rivers District Council ownership rather than a developer, the district council can now control its use.

One resident to argue that the field's change of use would not prevent future development is treasurer of Watford UKIP David Bennett.

Mr Bennett believes there is no need to change the use of the land because many public open spaces already exist nearby.

He said: "Many people objected to its change of use, including organisations such as Hertfordshire and Middlesex Wildlife Trust. This is another example of the council continuing to build without taking into consideration any infastructure.

"There have been a number of applications to build on The Horsefield and they have all been approved. The Horsefield will be built on in the next ten years - this is what will happen."

Councillor Chris Whately-Smith for Gade Valley said: "I am delighted that this confirms what councillors have always wanted - to preserve it as public open space and green breathing between Watford and Abbots Langley."