OXFORD City Council has been asked to compulsorily purchase land which was at the heart of a controversial planning application last week.

Developers withdrew a proposal to build 83 flats on land off William Morris Close on Friday. It was due to be heard at the east area planning committee tonight.

It was one of seven unsuccessful planning applications made for the site since 2013.

Resident and member of the Old Temple Cowley Residents' Association Judith Harley said the council could attempt to buy the 1.24 hectares for public use.

It is currently gated up by its owners, Cantay Estates.

Ms Harley said: "We believe that there is a compelling case that this should be done in the public interest, and that such a move will promote the social and environmental well-being of our area.

She said: "(Council leader) Councillor Bob Price was quoted as saying that it was 'regrettable' that no-one had come forward to rejuvenate the playing fields, but that the council would not succumb to pressure the longer the site remained vacant."

She added: "With increasing housing development all around us, including on the former Temple Cowley Pools and Fitness Centre site, we need increasing leisure facilities in Temple Cowley."

Executive board member Councillor Dee Sinclair said it 'is not looking to acquire the site'.