Plans to use the land that separates Hitchin and Ickleford as a "Community Car Park" have gone to the Secretary of State as part on an appeal that some local residents are labelling as "ridiculous".

This appeal to the highest levels of government follows the earlier refusal and subsequent withdrawal of two prior applications submitted to North Herts Council.

The Council, in a decision made in November 2024, rejected the application based on several substantial reasons.

These reasons included inconsistencies with both local and national planning policies concerning the greenbelt, concerns over highway safety, issues related to sustainable transport and development, impacts on biodiversity, and violations of local transport policy.

Hertfordshire highways, for instance, recommended rejection on the basis of the proposal likely leading to "inconsiderate and illegal parking prejudicial to highway safety".

The proposals encompassed plans to host car boot sales and markets on designated land and parking areas. The applications faced significant opposition, with over 80 objections raised by residents and organizations. Noteworthy among these were objections from Ickleford Parish Council, Hertfordshire Highways, and Hitchin Forum.

One resident, formally objecting to the latest appeal, described it as a "white elephant" that will damage the environment and make the area more dangerous.