CAMPAIGNERS were claiming victory after a public inquiry ruled that land in Caerwent dug up by building company, Barratt, should be registered as a village green.

Residents and members of the Merton Green Action Group were delighted when they received news on Monday that the planning inspector's report following the public inquiry in November, upheld their case and recommended the land be registered as a village green.

The Free Press understands that Barratt Homes have now applied for an urgent hearing at the High Court next Tuesday to test the submission of the report.

The outcome of the recommendation could send shock waves though the planning and building sectors as the implications of the decision could impact seriously on future development and planning regulations.

The inquiry was brought following a bitter two and a half year dispute between residents of Merton Green and Ash Tree Road, Barratt Homes and Monmouthshire council, after the council granted planning permission to Barratt Homes to build 145 new homes on land residents claimed had been used as recreational space for decades.

Local resident and campaigner, Annmarie Spooner said: "We are delighted with the outcome. The residents of Caerwent have worked hard for this result and we would like to thank Hugh Candler, our solicitor, for sticking with us for over two and a half years throughout this battle.

"If the council follows the recommendation of the inquiry there will be a large area of open green space for all to enjoy and be protected from future development."

Caerwent Cllr, Phillip Murphy said: "Having attended the inquiry, I am not at all surprised by the decision, and I have always supported the group in exercising their democratic rights."

The report has now been submitted to Monmouthshire County Council for consideration by the Licensing and Regulatory Committee.

A council spokesman said: "Having seen the Inspector's report, the council will need to take it into full account when the matter is considered by the Licensing and Regulatory Committee. From a planning perspective, the loss of a significant housing site could have repercussions, in that alternative housing land may eventually need to be identified."

Barratt Homes were unavailable to comment.