Politics & Council · Devizes
Devizes residents voice opposition as Hillworth Valley housing plans progress
By Swindon Now Editorial Team · Published
Residents in Devizes have expressed fresh frustration as detailed plans for 59 homes in Hillworth Valley move closer to reality.
Controversial plans for a housing development in the picturesque Hillworth Valley have taken a significant step forward, sparking renewed concern among local residents in Devizes. A formal submission of 'reserved matters' was made on 9 October, outlining the specific details of a project that has faced staunch community opposition for years.
The current proposal seeks approval for 59 homes, comprising six one-bed properties, 29 two-bed homes, 17 three-bed units and seven four-bed houses. According to the submission, 30 per cent of the site, amounting to 18 homes, would be designated as affordable housing.
While the project received outline planning permission three years ago following a hearing with the planning inspectorate, the development remains a point of contention. At the time of the initial approval, the inspector acknowledged that the scheme would cause harm to the area's character and appearance, though ruled that this was offset by the benefits the development would provide.
The latest submission has reignited local dissent, with several objections already lodged as part of the ongoing public consultation. Residents have raised concerns regarding the pressure on local infrastructure, specifically noting that the junction onto Hillworth Road from Long Street is already heavily congested. There are also persistent fears regarding the impact on the local landscape and the wildlife inhabiting the valley.
Local councillor Maria Hoult, who has been a long-standing opponent of the scheme, recently described the progress of the application as a day that the community had hoped would not come. She has previously labelled the scale of the development as inappropriate for the site.
The public consultation period for these reserved matters is now open and is scheduled to conclude on 12 November. Wiltshire Council will consider the feedback received before deciding whether to move the development into the construction phase.
Source: Wiltshire Times · View original