by Alan Watkins

awatkins@thekmgroup.co.uk

Campaigners are considering whether to accept an invitation to stand alongside the council in the continuing battle to protect the Green Belt.

Gravesham councillors yesterday said they would not pursue proposals to develop any Green Belt land after thousands of people made it clear they were against building.

Council leader John Burden (Lab) said they had to consult on green belt construction as part of the council's Local Development Framework (LDF).

The angry defence of the fields and woods by hundreds at meetings in the rural villages will now be used by the council to convince a planning inspector that the local community wants 4,600 homes - needed by 2028 - should be built on urban brownfield sites. A major battle is expected with landowners and developers who are said to have offered £1 million an acre for land around Meopham, Istead Rise and Culverstone.

Campaigner James Ferrin said: "If they want the community behind them, let's sit down and have a meeting."

Sue Gofton, chairman of the Gravesham rural action group, said she was elated the green fields were being protected for at least the next 18 years.

"I think we need to be proactive rather than reactive," she said.

"The steering group is fair amnd professional. Perhaps Cllr Burden would involve us in some of the decision-making."

Opposition leader Cllr Mike Snelling (Con) said the council had caused unnecessary angst for the community.

"I must congratulate the opponents for showing that people power works," he said.

The bulk of the new houses will be provided by approved developments, such as Gravesend's Canal Basin and the Heritage Quarter.

Cllr Burden was pleased at the numbers responding. Only a handful of people wanted to approve building in the rural areas.

The "no Green Belt developments" plan must be approved by the Gravesham cabinet, the full council and then by the independent inspector.