Wildlife conservationists, tenants and homeowners have lobbied a public inquiry over housebuilding on two green spaces.

The sites on Ermine Road and Plevna Crescent, both in Tottenham, are designated nature conservation areas by Haringey Borough Council.

But a public inquiry held at The Cypriot Centre in Earlham Grove, Wood Green took place after developer Eden Gate was refused planning permission to build 95 flats across the two sites

Quentin Given, co-ordinator of Tottenham & Wood Green Friends of the Earth, handed in a petition of 2,274 signatures to the inspector Lesley Coffey who heard submissions over two days on Wednesday and Thursday last week.

Mr Given also gave evidence calling on the planning inspector to reject the appeal by the developer and instead to support an alternative future for the sites, for community use and wildlife.

Opposition to the original plans meant developers have already had to put forward new proposals with more accommodation for wildlife.

Mr Given, 61, of the Ferry Lane Estate, said: “The changes already made are a small victory but we’re hopeful the inquiry will oppose the plans altogether.

“People remember fondly these areas being rich in wildlife and it is especially important for children to have access to nature.

“Wildlife spaces are declining and with 10,000 new homes planned for Tottenham and a rocketing population, maintaining green spaces so people have contact with nature is vital.”

A decision from the public inquiry is expected in May.