Simpa Carter at the Elvet bowling green site, next to the old toilet block in Durham City. Last year, the local authority put the former toilet block and adjoining land at Elvet Green up for sale. (Image: Durham County Council)More than 1,100 people signed a petition calling for the proposed sale of Elvet Green to be paused while further public consultation takes place. Mr Carter added: "We remain hopeful that a positive solution can be found so Elvet Green can continue to thrive as a place that brings people together for years to come." Durham County Council said work is due to begin on replacing the nearby Baths Bridge and the site will be used to provide construction access.