CAMPAIGNERS are celebrating after plans for a large housing development in Royston were withdrawn. Developers Fairview Homes have decided to rethink plans to develop land adjacent to Burns Road and Coombelands following opposition from local people. They

CAMPAIGNERS are celebrating after plans for a large housing development in Royston were withdrawn.

Developers Fairview Homes have decided to rethink plans to develop land adjacent to Burns Road and Coombelands following opposition from local people.

They will now not build on land next to Betjemen Close, and are rethinking their plans for the plots near Thackeray Close and Coombelands.

The scheme, which had been set to comprise 250 homes, caused uproar among residents, who formed the North Royston Action Group (NRAG) in protest at the plans.

Residents and local councillors, together with Royston MP Oliver Heald, met with Fairview Homes Planning Director Steve Mellor and Project Manager John Baines yesterday, and were informed of the firm's change of heart.

Mr Heald said: "I am pleased at this step forward for local residents. I met Fairview Planning Director Steve Mellor and Project Manager John Baines and they were able to tell me of their wish to respond to residents' concerns.

"The points Jayne Bratton (of the NRAG) made during our meeting were constructive criticisms and Fairview are prepared to take her points on board. I am sure this will lead to better plans, which will ensure that any development is more sensitive. I look forward to hearing residents' reaction to the new plans when they are available.