CAMPAIGNERS battling to save a green oasis in Wimborne from being developed are jubilant after planners recommended refusal.

The application by owner Mike Griffiths to build three shops and three flats on the site of popular Crown Mead Gardens in the town centre is set to be discussed at by the East Dorset District Council Planning Committee on Tuesday.

The site behind the Salamander cook shop is not public open space but people have been allowed to enjoy the tranquil spot by the river since the land was leased to the town council in 1994.

At that time the site, despite being in a conservation area, was derelict and run-down but volunteers, aided by local scouts, transformed it into the gardens which are popular with office workers and shoppers.

Many sent in letters of objection, backed by the town council who said the development would mean the loss of a "valuable public amenity".

In their report, planners raised concerns over the design of the proposals, adding that the undeveloped nature of the site and its riverside environment provide an important "green lung" to this part of Wimborne.