Campaigners battling their council for ownership of a contested piece of land scored a major victory in the High Court.

Yesterday (March 21), the judge ruled that the dispute over the sale of the Bridge Park complex, in Stonebridge, must be decided in court.

Brent Council, which wants to redevelop the site, had hoped to push ahead with a land sale by dismissing claims by the Stonebridge Community Trust that it is to be protected.

It argued that this covenant – which stated that the site must solely be available for community use – no longer applies.

The council entered into a conditional agreement with General Mediterranean Holdings in June 2017 to redevelop the area, which would provide “better” community facilities, workspace and 104 new homes.

A spokesman for Brent Council explained that it would continue with its proposals and will take the concerns of residents into account.

He said: “Our intention has always been to work with all of the Stonebridge community to develop a new Bridge Park Centre with better leisure, community, employment and business spaces for local people.

“The decision just means we go to a full hearing so that more evidence can be provided.

“Our position has not changed as we have said all along that we would prefer to sit down with the Stonebridge Community Trust to have a conversation about the future of the site.”