A field and play park in Bushey has been secured for community use “forever” after it was officially handed a royal accreditation.

The Moatfield, off Bournehall Lane, has been given Queen Elizabeth II status after Hertsmere Council agreed earlier this month to keep the field as a recreation ground in perpetuity.

As well as a £3,000 grant, the move means commercial development on the site is banned, something welcomed by members of the community.

Former councillor and Bushey resident Anita Gamble, who has been involved in several projects at the field in the past 10 years, described the news as wonderful.

She said: “I’m delighted. I think over the years it has become a very desirable area. Twenty years ago it was poor and it needed some investment but since then the council has done that. All the work that has been done has really improved it.

“This status is very beneficial for the whole community – it is really lovely and for it never to be built on is a real plus.”

The award will see The Queen Elizabeth II title attached to The Moatfield name in some capacity, though the council has yet to come up with the site’s new official title.

The authority has however confirmed it will be spending the extra cash on outdoor fitness equipment to add to the outdoor play park, youth shelter and football pitch at the field.

Councillor Brenda Batten (Bushey Heath, Conservative) said: “It is very good news the council has made this commitment. The Moatfield is very well used by both young people and adults for various events, activities and dog walking.

“It is looking very good at the moment at The Moatfield with everything that has been installed there in recent years and it will be even better with the help of this cash and status.”