The fight to secure the future of treasured green space in Baildon has come to a happy conclusion.

Residents of Hoyle Court and Kirklands, with the help of Baildon town councillors, have convinced Bradford Council to hand over an area of green space which is used for a host of community events.

Hoyle Court Kirklands Residents’ Association worked with Coun Barney Lerner and Coun Ian Lyons to finalize a plan which has resulted in a 25-year lease at a peppercorn rent.

The popular green space is about a third of an acre and recent events have included Royal Wedding street parties, barbecues, and a Christmas carol singing evening.

The agreement means residents will now be able to enjoy the green space, without the threat of development, for decades to come.

In 2010, Bradford planners applied to build one three-bedroom detached and two semi-detached homes on the site, but the plans were withdrawn following objections.

Two years ago, the Hoyle Court and Kirklands Residents Association was formed to preserve and maintain the land for the villagers.

Its chairman Neil Harvey said locals would now be overjoyed by news the green space had been saved.

“Personally I’m delighted and I think everyone concerned will be as well,” he said.

“It’s been a bit of a struggle to get here, but if it wasn’t for the great support of Baildon Town Council, it would have been a lot more difficult.

“I’d also thank the ward councillors for their help too,” Mr Harvey said.

“The whole community has been behind this and now we can look forward to having more events like our barbecues and carol singing,” Mr Harvey said.

Coun Barney Lerner said he and the town council were glad to have helped.

“We’re really pleased to have been a useful intermediary in making this happen, so residents can now get on look and enjoy this precious green space.

“I wonder if we’ll have to hand over a real peppercorn though!”he said.