“Vindicated” campaigners are celebrating after Barnet Council said it plans to reduce the number of parks it proposes to hire out for private events.

Councillor Dean Cohen told the Times Series a revised policy will go before Cabinet on July 17 with recommendations to remove Victoria Park, Lyttelton Playing Fields and Highlands Gardens from the proposal.

A total of 1,206 people took part in the council’s Events in Parks consultation with 73.6 per cent opposing the plans.

Cllr Cohen said: “There were clear signs from local residents, MPs and some councillors who had concerns. Those were considered and as a result of that the policy has been revised.”

The consultation revealed people were worried the plans would lead to increased crime, noise pollution, litter and parking problems as well as damage to the parks in the borough.

Fred Sansom of Parkside, said: “A number of people around here all ready think that the council commercialises the park far too much for example there’s three fairs being held in Victoria Park this year.

“The revised plan is really good news. It’s a victory of residents and users of Victoria Park who expressed universal objection to the plans.

“Public and open spaces shouldn’t be used for private purposes even if it is just in a small area of the park.

“Hiring them out would give rise to all types of practical issues for example interfering with people’s general use of the park, noise pollution, parking and litter.

“I’m absolutely delighted and I’m sure everyone who uses the park will say it’s very good news.”

Brian Plen of Etchingham Park Road said: “I’m very pleased. I feel vindicated. We won’t be getting consequent mess and noise and parking problems. It’s a load of our minds.

“The parks belong to the people of Finchley and are to be shared with everyone. If people lose a quarter of their park for private events, it would be a great intrusion.”

Mike Freer MP for Finchley and Golders Green said: “I’m happy – it’s the right decision.”

The parks which could still be affected by the policy include Edgwarebury Park, Hendon Park, Scratchwood, Oak Hill Park and Princes Park.