Developers behind the proposed railfreight depot on the edge of Radlett have refuted protesters' claims that a site in Luton would be more suitable.

Local politicians, including St Albans Liberal Democrat parliamentary candidate Sandy Walkington, visited a former quarry in Sundon, just north of Luton, with members of the campaign group Strife last Friday.

Mr Walkington told Watford Observer's sister newspaper, the St Albans Review, the site, which has been earmarked as a potential goods yard, would be a far better location for the depot.

The proposal, so controversial with residents in St Albans and Radlett, has even been welcomed by local people and Luton's MP for the major economic boost it could provide.

However, Helioslough spokesman Simon Hoare said the terminal is intended to serve those living in the North West quadrant of the country, adding Luton is geographically unsuitable for the project.

Responding, Mr Walkington said Luton should be considered as an alternative location for the huge development.

He said: "Helioslough will be paying their man to dismiss and diminish any alternative. One should count one's fingers when listening to what they say.

"Mr Hoare is being paid by Helioslough to rubbish any opposition.

"It's a perfectly valid alternative site and one that should be looked at thoroughly."