SCOUT members and a vicar were among the residents who lined up to criticise city council plans to sell green space for £90 million.

Two petitions of more than 300 signatures and a dozen public statements representing a range of community organisations were submitted to last night's cabinet meeting.

The area green space plan proposes selling more than 60 plots of land across the city to raise money for improvements to other recreational sites.

Although the plan was not on the agenda, around a dozen members of the public went toexpress their concerns.

Members of the 62nd Bristol Scout Group were among them, objecting to the potential development of Wellington Playing Field in Horfield.

Chairman James Richards said: "The field is an important green space for the local residents, with families and many other informal groups using the field.

"Scouting would considerably lose out from the field being sold off. From their headquarters adjacent to the field, the group sections currently offer the young people a variety of outdoor activities."

Geoffrey Stock, leader of Horfield Young People's Club, said his group had put together a 120-strong petition against the proposals for the field.

He said: "Horfield Young People's Club has served well over 1,000 young people and their families since 1975, and the function of the club is very largely reliant on the open space of Wellington Hill Playing Field being immediately adjacent to Horfield Parish Church Hall, the premises we use.

"I cannot believe that our beloved field will be disposed of and, on behalf of all young and older users, I most strongly urge the council to spare for us and future generations the field we so much use and enjoy."

Statements against the sale were also submitted by Rozel Neighbourhood Watch Committee, representing 140 households in the area, Manor Farm Boy's Club and Rev John Hadley.

A petition of 221 signatures against the development of allotment grazing at Woodwell Road, Shirehampton, and 110 signatures against a possible travellers' site in the same location were also received by councillors.

Councillor Mark Weston (Con, Henbury) provided another statement against the green spaces scheme.

He said: "I wish to join my voice to the growing chorus of concerned residents from Henbury and Brentry.

"I would also like to express my concern and anger at the fact that every major decision regarding the site allocations procedure seems to take place in May, after any local elections."

Executive member for targeted improvement, Councillor Gary Hopkins, stressed the council was listening and explained the process.

He said: "The green spaces plan has been winding its way through the council for four or five years now. It has been a very difficult job for officers to come up with a list [of sites]. It isn't universally accepted everywhere but the reason for consultation is so we can hear what people think."

Consultation on the proposals is due to finish at the end of the month, and in December the council will draw up a list of sites that could be sold off.

The public will then be asked which areas they would like to see improved.