Campaigners against a plan for a new parking lot near Shelly Bay playground said today they were celebrating after the idea was shelved.

Developer Tom Steinhoff had proposed installing a new parking lot next to the playground for customers of a beachside restaurant he is planning to open.

The plan prompted an outcry from residents, with Opposition MPs Wayne Furbert and Derrick Burgess helping to organise a petition and host a public meeting at Franics Patton Primary School attended by about 200 people.

The Community Against the Shelly Bay Parking Lot issued a press release this morning stating that public works minister Craig Cannonier had told the group the parking lot would not be built.

“The welcoming news also included that the Shelly Bay Beach House would not be proceeding with plans to erect questionable proposals such as a pier, a water slide or the rental of jet skis,” said the release.

“They will not attempt to encroach on the public lands or beach with reserved beach seating for the Shelly Bay Beach House Restaurant. The Community Against The Shelly Bay Parking Lot is grateful to all of the residents who recognised that the creation of this parking lot would restrict their freedoms of use of the picnic areas and pose a safety hazard to children playing in the area.

“These community members made their feelings known through a community meeting held at the Francis Patton School, the submission of over a thousand signatures on petitions that circulated the island and the numerous objection letters sent by concerned neighbours, individuals and organisations.

“The partners of the Shelly Bay Beach House remain in consultation to make adjustments that will satisfactorily serve the Shelly Bay Beach House restaurant while preserving the rights and freedoms of the public to safely and without hindrance enjoy Shelly Bay Beach and Park.”

Mr Furbert told The Royal Gazette the successful campaign to halt the car park was an example of people power. “We made it clear why it wasn’t acceptable and the government listened,” he said. “It didn’t make sense.”

Mr Steinhoff could not be reached by telephone this morning and the Ministry of Public Works has yet to confirm the news.