RESIDENTS of Garston, determined to prevent the go-ahead for a 50-home development, are outraged at the 'lack of support' received from their MP.

The controversial plans to build on the Building Research Establishment site off Bucknalls Lane in Garston was agreed by St Albans District Council last month. A final decision is now in the hands of environment secretary John Prescott.

The decision has provoked anger among Garston residents, who say that, although they managed to secure backing from Three Rivers District Council, they have seen little to no evidence of frontline support from Watford MP Claire Ward.

Mr Les Fox, of Lemonfield Drive, off Bucknalls Lane, Garston, said: 'I am really disappointed Ms Ward has not shown more interest in the whole issue.

'The residents here on the estate are very concerned about the effect this development will have on the traffic in the area if it goes ahead.

'We feel we are not being listened to.

'Ms Ward should be showing us more support as our MP because it's no good saying she supports us when she has done nothing to show it.'

Last week, 700 residents living near the site signed a petition asking Mr Prescott to hold a public inquiry into the planning issue.

A formal request has been lodged by Three Rivers Council to Mr Prescott for an independent public inquiry.

Three Rivers councillor Mr Stephen Giles-Medhurst, who wrote to Ms Ward in April for her support, has this week criticised her response.

Councillor Giles-Medhurst said: 'As it is now a matter for the Government to decide, I thought, at the very least, as our MP she would back residents' demand for a public inquiry.

'After all, what are MPs there for?'

Miss Ward said: 'I do believe Three Rivers District Council has adequately put forward a case and I am all for having a public inquiry to ensure a fair hearing.

'I have had a number of pieces of correspondence from Councillor Giles-Medhurst but he has not sent me a copy of the petition.

'I am somewhat surprised Councillor Giles-Medhurst has not advised residents to contact me directly.

'Residents need to get in touch with me to relay their fears.

'There are sensitive and controversial issues around the planning and building on this site which need to be debated.'

She added: 'I am not sure we will agree on everything but I am happy to see residents air their views.' atanna@london.newsquest.co.uk