The clerk to the Conservators of Therfield Heath and Greens has said “the losers here are all the users of the heath” – in response to the Planning Inspectorate’s decision to refuse the land swap application.

The inspector’s decision was announced on Friday, more than three months after the conclusion of the eight-day public inquiry in which he heard evidence from supporters and objectors of the application to deregister heathland near Sun Hill and Briary Lane and replace it with woodland west of New Road in Therfield

The Conservators of Therfield Heath and Greens – who manage the heath and also operate as trustees of the Therfield Regulation Trust, which owns the site – gave evidence saying that the possible £1.4 million raised from selling the land would be reinvested into running costs and sporting facilities.

Conservators clerk David Smith told the Crow this morning: “Conservators are naturally disappointed with the Planning Inspectorate’s decision. They will now consider their options for both the immediate and long-term future.

“The losers here are all the users of the heath. The growth of Royston and district means increased pressure on the heath.

“There is a real need for increased spending to maintain the heath for all the users at this unique and precious place.”