Residents are petitioning to save a historical Green Belt site after plans to build flats on it were resubmitted to the council.

The Bushey Heath Residents Association (BHRA) is campaigning not only against the proposals to build 38 flats in the borough, but to save green areas in the neighbourhood.

The plans, submitted by Banner Homes Central, are for four blocks of flats and a semi-underground car park on The Paddock in Elstree Road.

The plans are an amendment to a proposal submitted last year for 40 flats in five blocks.

More than 1,400 people have signed the petition, which will be presented to newly elected MP, Oliver Dowden yesterday (Thursday).

BHRA Chairman Linda Rauch said: "The Paddocks are an important part of Bushey's history - it would be a shame to lose it, especially as it was left to the people of Bushey Heath."

The Paddock is part of Reveley Lodge estate, which was bequeathed to the Bushey Museum Property Trust in 2003.

Ms Rauch, of Caldecote Gardens, added: "We don't think there is a good enough reason to build on this Green Belt land and that is not the only thing.

"The proposed blocks of flats would be out of keeping with the street scene. This area has mostly bungalows and therefore the blocks of flats would be overbearing.

"Also, the impact on traffic, especially during the afternoon school rush hour, would be horrific. Parents of pupils from Immanuel College already park on my street and when there's cars parked on both sides it can be a nightmare - the new development would only add to this."

The Paddock is currently on the list of recommended Local Green Space to be protected, which is part of Hertsmere Borough Council's core strategy, but it is still awaiting approval.

Members of BHRA said that they hope this is approved soon as it will preserve one of the few important green spaces in Bushey.

Duncan Klitgaard, Land and Planning Director at CALA Homes Chiltern, said: "CALA Homes has been in consultation with council planning officers to create a high quality development proposal, which not only complements the architectural style of the local area but will deliver much needed private and affordable housing for local people. It will also secure significant financial contributions for the benefit of the local community.

"CALA’s investment at the site will provide funds for the Bushey Museum Property Trust, which will be used to help maintain and preserve the adjacent Reveley Lodge and its gardens.

"This much needed investment in Reveley Lodge will safeguard the house and gardens so that it may continue to be used as an art and educational resource in Bushey, for the benefit and enjoyment of the local community and beyond.

"A public exhibition was held last year to discuss the proposed development and we have a made a number of changes in line with feedback received from the local community at this event. These include reducing the total number of flats by four, and reducing the number of buildings from five to four, together with increased spacing between the buildings and lowering of the height of the rear of the buildings."