THE percentage of Enfield gardens grabbed for redeveloped has tripled in the past 12 years, according to Government figures.

Thirteen per cent of new homes were built on residential land from 1994 to 1997, compared to 37 per cent from 2006 to 2009.

In 1997 the borough's garden grabbing record was around average in the capital, but it has since surged into sixth place.

The percentage of grabs is expected to drop markedly, however, following a change in the rules.

Gardens have now taken out of the brownfield category, which includes derelict factories and disused railway sidings.

It is hoped this will dramatically transform councils' ability to prevent unwanted development on gardens where local people object.

Decentralisation minister Greg Clark said: "For years local people were powerless to do anything about the blight of garden grabbing as the character of their neighbourhoods was destroyed and their wishes ignored.

“Building on gardens robs communities of green breathing space, safe places for children to play and havens for urban wildlife.

"It was ridiculous that gardens were classified in the same group as derelict factories and disused railway sidings.

"Now we've changed the classification of garden land, councils and communities will no longer have their decisions constantly overruled, and will have the power to work with industry to shape future development that is appropriate for their area."

Dr Ross Cameron, from the School of Biological Sciences, University of Reading, said there were "real benefits" to keeping gardens undeveloped.

"Vegetation around buildings keeps us cool in summer and reduces our energy bills in winter, as well as protecting us from flooding.

"Gardens are also great for our mental and physical wellbeing. Research has demonstrated that gardening can improve self-esteem, communication skills, attention span and even educational performance.

"In essence, protecting gardens is important to improve quality of life, and particularly for people in cities."