A POPULAR open space in Faringdon has been designated a town green, protecting it from future development.

County councillors at a planning meeting agreed on Monday that Humpty Hill, off Highworth Road, should be registered under the Commons Act 2006 following an application from Robert Stewart.

The 35-year-old, from Faringdon, said he was delighted by the decision.

He added: “I grew up in Faringdon.

“Humpty Hill has been used as a popular open space for as long as anyone in the town can remember.

“Every day people walk their dogs there and it’s very popular with children.

“You can go for a picnic in the summer or sledging in the winter.

“This designation should protect Humpty Hill for the people of Faringdon forever.

“The campaign was very well supported and this decision shows what can be achieved by residents.”

A public inquiry was held in March after the landowner objected to the town green application.

The inquiry followed a planning application by developer Gladman to build about 100 homes on the site.

Campaigners said a major residential development would have a severe impact on an area of natural beauty, and on the surrounding views.

The county council is the Commons Registration Authority responsible for registering land as town greens.