Park campaigners were angered further last week after councillors backed plans for a car park in Boston Manor Park.

The controversial proposals, which would see drugs giant GlaxoSmithKline offering cash to regenerate Boston Manor House and grounds, in exchange for a 600 space car park, were discussed at the executive meeting last Tuesday.

Speaking at the meeting, council leader Peter Thompson said: "Ideally we would not have to sell the land but these heritage projects need help fast if they are to survive.

"And at the end of the day people do not give you millions and millions of pounds without asking for something in return - that's not the world we live in."

But he insisted the council would only be considering the sale of land currently under a flyover and would not be considering any deals which involved giving up 'green spaces'.

Jan Jones, a member of Friends of Boston Manor Park (FOBM), said: "We have some serious concerns regarding the proposals put forward.

"FOBM has devoted considerable time and effort to voluntary fundraising, lobbying and physical participation to improve the house, park and amenities provided within them for the benefit of the local community."

Following councillors' endorsement of the project's principles, it will now go to public consultation.