Big Brother will be appearing on our television screens for at least the next five years.

Hertsmere Borough Council has granted planning permission for producers Endemol and Channel Five to continue filming the long-running television show at Elstree Studios until 2018.

This evening's vote was unanimous and the council received only one letter objecting to the scheme, from Hillside Avenue Residents Association. 

Speaking after the meeting, Councillor Martin Worster, vice-chairman of the council's planning committee, said the show's continuation would provide an economic boost to the town. 

He said: "Big Brother is a big source of employment in Borehamwood and it is great those jobs will continue for at least the next five years. 

"The studios generate £1million in rental income for the council which helps the residents, and we fully support the work that goes on there.

"I'm very impressed by Big Brother's committment to reducing the impact on members of the public through improving soundproofing and using pre-recorded pyrotechnics after shows to reduce disruption."

Councillor Seamus Quilty, who is responsible for housing and economic development, added: "When the show was first proposed in 2002 we received 176 letters of objections from people in the neighbouring streets concerned about noise.

"This time, we've had only one. This is a very big point in the show's favour."