A GROUP of residents has fought off development at a wildlife hotspot - and now want more done to protect it permanently.
Developers wanted to build an 'eco-house' on Fray's Island, in the Fray's River behind Ferndale Crescent, Cowley.
Plans were lodged earlier this year, but at a Hillingdon Council planning meeting last Tuesday, councillors rejected the proposals.
They had received 24 letters of objection and two petitions, and Uxbridge MP John Randall (Conservative) was also opposed to the building.
He has stepped into previous rows over the development of the land, arguing the island should be protected as a wildlife habitat.
Roger Dewey, of Ferndale Crescent, told councillors he had recorded 54 separate species of birds on the island.
He said: "What this island really needs is protection from development and the opportunity to improve the wildlife habitat and biodiversity by a well-thought-out management plan."
A protected species of bat is known to roost on the island.
There were fears among residents that once one 'eco-house' was approved, it could set a precedent and lead to several more.
Protesters also feared a septic tank, part of the development, could overflow into the river.
