Politics & Council · Wiltshire-wide
Planning inspector clears way for homes at former Durrington library site
By Swindon Now Editorial Team · Published
A government inspector has overturned Wiltshire Council's refusal, allowing for the construction of two semi-detached homes on the site of the former library in Bulford Road.
Plans to transform the site of the former library at 75 Bulford Road in Durrington have been given the green light following a successful appeal. The decision, handed down by a government planning inspector, marks a significant shift for the derelict plot, which is currently occupied by a portacabin.
Earlier this year, Wiltshire Council had rejected the proposal for two semi-detached homes. The local authority had cited concerns that the scale and design of the development would be too dominant for the street scene and potentially create an intrusive environment for neighbours, particularly at the adjacent property, No. 73 Bulford Road.
However, the planning inspector took a different view after visiting the site. In the appeal decision, the inspector concluded that the proposed homes would fit comfortably within the established character of Bulford Road. The inspector explicitly disagreed with the council’s assessment that the development would have an overbearing effect on existing residents, finding that it would not create an unacceptable outlook for neighbours.
The site, which falls within the Durrington settlement boundary, was recognised by planning officers as a sustainable location for housing. While the council had previously argued that design concerns outweighed the benefit of new housing, the inspector found the proposal to be fully compliant with planning policy. The decision effectively voids the council’s original refusal, removing the final obstacle to the development proceeding.
The approval will now allow the applicant to proceed with the demolition of the existing portacabin and commence the construction of the two homes, alongside associated landscaping works. For the Durrington community, the decision settles a long-standing question regarding the future of the former council-owned land, helping to utilise a vacant site while contributing to the local housing supply.
Source: Salisbury Journal — Salisbury · View original