A “well-loved” play area has been saved after Brentwood Council agreed not to sell it to a developer.

Residents protested last week after the council said it had received an offer for the sale of the St Peter’s Road Play Area.

Protestors feared the sale would result in children in the area being left without any play facilities.

Today (Tuesday) the council said a community asset transfer, which involves the community taking over and running a site, will be considered and it will look into whether this would improve the St Peter’s Road play area.

Councillors from the Brentwood west ward announced they are also looking at providing an additional play area in the ward.

Cllr Russell Quirk, chair of the asset, infrastructure and localism panel, said: “The ward councillors and I had a very productive meeting at which the future of this well-loved play area was assured.

“I’m delighted that we all agree on the way forward and that out of this meeting came a discussion on there being improved play provision within Brentwood west using S106 monies (from a legal planning agreement) due to the council from recent developments.

“The developer that had approached us has been informed that their offer has been declined.”

Cllr Will Russell, a ward councillor for Brentwood west, said: “I am happy that ward members are working together to insure the protection of this play area for the future.”

Cllr Karen Chilvers, also a member for the ward, added: “I am delighted that residents won the day and got to keep their much valued play area. It is vital to have such facilities in Brentwood west for families to enjoy.

“I now look forward to working towards providing additional play areas and activities for children of all ages in the area.”