A VILLAGE beauty spot has been saved from development – for ever.

The stretch of parkland in front of Palk Close, Shaldon, was at one time being earmarked for new houses.

But after a three year campaign by residents, it has been granted Village Green Status by the county council, and villagers are jubilant.

It means the area can never be built on.

Palk Close resident Jim Moore, who led the 'hands-off' campaign, said the news was 'brilliant'.

'It has been a long slog, and our first efforts were rejected by the council. It meant we had to do a lot more research and obtain evidence that the green had been used as a park and recreation area for over 20 years.

'A lot of hard work was needed to meet all the criteria demanded, but now it has all been worthwhile.

'It is not just the people living around here that would have been affected. The green is used by many villagers and visitors and all ages, from children who play there, and the elderly who like to sit and enjoy the views across the river.

'It is also a favourite picnic spot in the summer, and building houses there would have spoiled the open area for many,' said Mr Moore, 64.

Parish council chairman Cllr Steve Shelter, described the outcome as 'magnificent'.

'The parish council supported the campaign, and we have sent our congratulations to Mr Moore and all those involved.

'It is a wonderful achievement, because there was a real danger that the green could have been built on. We cannot afford to lose any open spaces in the village.'

Shaldon resident Cllr David Cox, who recommended seeking village green status when he was a county councillor, added: 'This is a great victory for people power and I congratulate the residents on their hard work.

'Village green status is the best protection recreation land can have, but it is not applicable in all cases.'