A pavilion at the world’s oldest cricket green has won protection from an impending development threat.

Mitcham Cricket Green, which was established in 1685, has been awarded Asset of Community Value status after it was concerned that a building dating from 1904 could be placed in jeopardy by potential planning applications.

The news about the iconic 334-year-old southwest London club, which has produced four England players, comes amid an ongoing debate after the land was sold to an investment company in 2008.

The Leatherhead-based Phoenix Grp Investments Ltd purchased the site, which includes the pavilion, a derelict Grade II listed pub and a large, unused car park.

Since the sale, Mitcham Cricket Green has been threatened by a handful of development proposals despite still running a number of junior cricket teams and hosting both men’s and women’s teams.