COUNCILLORS received a round of applause last night when they deferred a decision to sell a piece of parkland in the centre of Borehamwood.

An officers report submitted to the Hertsmere Borough Council executive asked for permission to market land at Clarendon Park, which has outline planning permission for 11 two-bedroom flats.

Residents from nearby streets attended the meeting to lobby the councillors to vote against the sale. Peter Lurie, of Grosvenor Road, spoke on their behalf.

He said notices for planning permission had been inadequate and the details flawed as they attempted to cram too much into a tight space.

However, a consensus was agreed that something needs to be done with the land as part of it contains dilapidated buildings.

Leader of the council, Cllr Morris Bright (Conservative, Elstree) suggested to defer the decision until a consensus can be reached.

The council will look to hold a public meeting with residents to rethink options for the urban green space.

Members of the executive unanimously to voted to defer the sale to the applause of members of the public.