Controversial plans to build new homes in a field have been withdrawn after fervent opposition.

Fairview New Homes will not progress with a planning application for new houses and a secondary school on green belt land in Enfield Road.

Campaigners against the plans, particularly the Enfield Road Watch group, said the development would cause the area to “lose its character”.

They presented a 4,000 signature petition to Enfield Council.

Enfield Conservative Party confirmd the news today.

The Greater London Authority told the group "no special circumstances" can justify building 200 homes on green belt land.

Cllr Glynis Vince, Highlands Ward councillor, said: “I am delighted that the GLA has listened to the views of local residents and the Enfield Road Watch and seen off this attempt to build houses and a school on the site.

"It was speculative and the houses are clearly not needed given the fact Enfield is on target to meet its housing delivery targets.

“The battle may have been won but it is clear we still have a fight on our hands. We will now be urging all local residents to engage with the Local Plan review process and make sure the council does not cave in to the pressure and reallocate this land as suitable for development.”

The Conservative councillor urged residents to engage with the Local Plan review, which ends on February 12, and give their opinion on the future of the land.

Fairview declined to comment.