Parkland County has rejected a proposal that would create an ATV park in land designated as wildlife habitat.

The land, known as Hell's Half Acre, was set aside in 1991 as part of a provincial program known as Buck for Wildlife.

The spot has become popular with people who like to ride through bogs, marshes and mud on their all-terrain vehicles, which has prompted complaints about noise, trespassing and vandalism.

Parkland County Mayor Rod Shaigec says council rejected the proposal after determining that the area was not appropriate for off-highway vehicles.

“We took a look at the impact it would have on the residents and also the impact on the environment,” he said.

However, ATV riding is still allowed at Hell's Half Acre.

Shaigec says the county will review whether this use complies with the land's designation as an environmentally-sensitive area.