THE on-going saga of a controversial temporary marquee at the Gardens of the Rose in Chiswell Green rumbled on this week, with councillors still no closer to a decision.

The Royal National Rose Society failed on Monday to get planning permission for a temporary marquee already standing in its grounds in Chiswell Green Lane while still fighting action by St Albans District Council to take it down.

But, members of the council's plans south sub-committee referred the application to the planning committee on September 6, with a recommendation to refuse.

An identical application was withdrawn in May after planning officers recommended refusal because the planned non-horticultural events in the marquee, such as weddings and parties, would cause traffic chaos on Chiswell Green Lane.

Speaking for the Gardens of the Rose, Colonel Ken Grapes said private functions would only attract about 150 visitors, while horticultural events would bring in 6,000 visitors.

He said: 'Chiswell Green Lane is wide enough for cars to pass at several locations.

'Over the many years it has held events there have been no reports of any traffic incidents or accidents at all.'

Councillor Gordon Myland said: 'How can it be that for 150 to 200 people Chiswell Green Lane is unsafe, but for events for four to six thousand, it is safe?

'I believe we are going down a foolish road. I think it is going to cost the council money, especially if they are going to appeal.'

Council director of planning and heritage Peter Lerner said the distinction had to be made between 6,000 people visiting the Gardens of the Rose throughout the day for a horticultural show and 150 to 200 people turning up and leaving at the same time for a private function.

Councillor Edward Hill said: 'The Gardens of the Rose is a major tourist attraction but that doesn't put it outside planning legislation.

'They have no idea what they have done wrong, they claim the council is acting undemocratically. They really only have themselves to blame.'

The Gardens of the Rose is appealing against an enforcement notice served by the council in June, ordering the marquee be taken down.

It is also awaiting a decision following a public inquiry into plans for a visitor centre, training and research complex and access road, which has the full support of the council.

, and they have made serious allegations about the professionalism of council officers

for the situation they find themselves in