Plans for the development of a Sainsbury’s Local in Chiswell Green have been refused by the planning inspectorate.

The proposed development by Chiswell Main Ltd was to be located on land adjacent to the Three Hammers pub in Watford Road.

Parish council chairman, Mick Freeman, said: “This is good news, for not only the residents of Chiswell Green, but also for St Stephen Parish as a whole.

“Hopefully, the local retailers can now continue to provide the excellent services to the community that they have done for many years, without the fear of having to close due to competition from one the supermarket giants.

“It is heartening in this day and age to be reminded that common sense prevails and that the decision by the planning inspector reaffirmed the views of St Albans District Council.

“The Three Hammers Public House can continue to retain its area of green space without being swamped by another development.

“The Green is still retained in Chiswell Green.”