Protesters win fight to halt housing

For decades residents of Edgerton and Birkby enjoyed a picturesque stroll between the two villages on Clayton Fields while youngsters delighted in sledging down the steep hill when wintry conditions permitted.

But in August, steel barricades were erected along with threatening “Keep Out” notices warning walkers they would be trespassing.

Yesterday it was revealed that village green status was to be re- instated at Clayton Fields following the High Court appeal in January.

Retired teacher Jonathan Adamson took the case against developer Paddico 267 Ltd to the High Court after High Court Judge Mr Justice Vos stripped the land of its village green status.

The company has not commented on the setback which was split 2-1 but could appeal, which if granted would see the case taken to the Supreme Court.

Kirklees Council leader Mehboob Khan said he hoped the developers would desist from taking any more legal action.