A MEADOW used by toads will not be sold in today's economic climate, it has emerged.

A MEADOW used by toads will not be sold in today's economic climate, it has emerged.

Over the past few months, Ipswich Borough Council has been considering whether to sell its land at Kiln Meadow at Thorington Park.

This borough-owned land was granted planning permission for housing development by Babergh District Council in late 2007.

Ipswich's council have decided not to sell the site now and will review the decision in the summer.

Councillor John Carnall, the borough's deputy leader, said: "We have a duty to maximise the value of any asset for the council tax-payer but, having discussed this with officers, we have concluded that, given the present economic climate, now is not the right time to sell this site.

“I am also aware this will also allow for time to investigate the ecological issues associated with the site."

The ecological issues focus on Kiln Meadow's hydrological value and its use for an annual migration of common brown toads.

Councillor Carnall added: "I anticipate the council's executive committee will consider a report next summer on this subject and will then determine whether to sell the land and, if so, a programme for the disposal of all or part of the site.

“In reaching its decision, I would anticipate that the committee will wish to consider the value of the land - and its potential importance to the council's budget and council tax levels - together with the ecological value of part of the site and the importance of delivering additional housing in the Ipswich area to meet the high targets that are being set for us and neighbouring councils by the government."