BOOS and hisses echoed around Three Rivers House last Thursday when it was announced that a developer had lodged an appeal against a decision before it had been made.

Oakbridge Homes, who applied to build 18 flats in Watford Road, lodged an appeal against the rejection of the application before it had been decided.

Massive public opposition to the proposals was reported in the Watford Observer two weeks ago, and the Three Rivers District Council development control committee were of the same view that the development was too large and out of character to be allowed.

Committee member and Croxley Green councillor Phil Brading took the lead in condemning the bulk of the buildings, the layout of the proposed homes, and the lack of security in the car park plan.

Local resident Matt Elms spoke to the committee to put forward the objections of the local community.

He said: "We ask the committee to provide their comprehensive rejection of this application in order that the local residents can have sufficient ammunition to thwart any appeal to the Planning Inspectorate.

"Regardless of the moratorium issue, we have a healthy, sustainable community and, as is evident from the support of our community this evening, and we request that our council reject this application on the grounds of traffic, protection of the local environment, wildlife and inappropriate development."

He urged the committee to refuse the application and a wave of cheers filled the room when the committee unanimously did so.

No one from Oakbridge Homes was available to comment at the time of going to press.