The Lands Tribunal is set to throw out Barnet Council's application to recoup the legal costs of a hearing into the planned redevelopment of Hen-don FC, according to objectors to the project.

Last month, we reported that objectors could have been ordered to pay legal bills of more than £1,000 each. At that time, Councillor Mike Freer, leader of the council, said the authority was right to ask for the money back.

More than 900 people have registered their objections to the plans, including Hendon MP Rudi Vis. The plans include proposals to demolish Hendon FC's Claremont Road stadium in Cricklewood, to create blocks of flats, a car park and a care home for elderly people.

A spokeswoman for the tribunal said the decision would not be announced until tomorrow.

Robert Goymour, speaking on behalf of the objectors, said a Lands Tribunal official had told him the council's argument had been rejected. He said: "We are absolutely delighted. Mr Freer said it was standard practice for a losing party at the Lands Tribunal to meet the costs, but that is absolutely wrong.

"The council has fallen flat on its face. It would have set a nasty precedent had the council been awarded costs, and this is a good result."

Dr Vis called the council's quest unjustified', and added: "Residents have a legitimate right to object to proposals made by the council without fear or threat and without being financially penalised for objecting."

Mr Freer said he would not comment until the result is officially announced.

mdysch@london.newsquest.co.uk