CAMPAIGNERS have been given a glimmer of hope in their bid to see a patch of land in Walton given village green status.

A group of residents, who form Walton Conservation Group, launched a bid to see the triangle of grass off Mill Lane given the official title.

The land is owned by Silverbrook Estates, which also owns the neighbouring Walton Mere.

Any Mere development plans could include the patch of grassland off Mill Lane.

Residents launched their bid to see it classified as a village green to protect it against inclusion in those plans and maintain a green space in the town.

Their efforts looked destined for failure last year when an Essex County Council inspector rejected the bid.

But now, more than a year after the rejection, the campaigners have secured a High Court hearing at the Royal Courts of Justice.

A spokesman for Walton Conservation Group said: “There is no such green in Walton or the surrounding villages and we want to protect it for residents here."

They will be represented by a barrister who will argue their case against Essex County Council’s decision.

It will take place on July 3.