Local News · Wiltshire-wide
Fresh concerns raised as 135-home development approved near Royal Wootton Bassett
By Swindon Now Editorial Team · Published
Wiltshire Council has approved plans for 135 new homes north of Royal Wootton Bassett, sparking further debate over the potential for the town to merge with Swindon.
Wiltshire Council's Northern Area Planning Committee has granted outline planning permission for 135 new homes on farmland north of Swindon Road, Royal Wootton Bassett. The decision, made on 14 October, has reignited long-standing local concerns regarding the expansion of urban areas and the potential for a physical merger between the town and the outskirts of Swindon.
The proposal, submitted by Gleeson Land, comprises 81 open market properties and 54 affordable homes. In addition to the residential units, the plans include the development of new access roads, drainage infrastructure, play areas, and designated public open spaces. To address heritage concerns regarding the nearby medieval Post Mill, officers have proposed a 50-metre buffer zone.
Infrastructure and Planning Pressures
The developer has committed to contributions towards local services, including education, bus services, and waste collection. Highway improvements are also planned, with a new toucan crossing and upgrades to pedestrian and cycle routes intended to mitigate the increased traffic volume.
Despite these measures, the approval faced significant opposition from local residents and town councillors. Objections were raised regarding the potential for urban sprawl, the erosion of the countryside, and the cumulative impact of multiple housing developments on existing local infrastructure.
The 'Merger' Debate
This latest decision follows the approval of 410 homes on land behind Sally Pussey’s Inn last year. The proximity of these developments to the M4 junction between the two towns has led to persistent fears that Royal Wootton Bassett may lose its identity through a merger with Swindon. Councillor Andrew Matthews, representing Royal Wootton Bassett East, acknowledged that the approval would be a disappointment to many residents.
"I want to be absolutely clear that the committee understands the concerns of local residents," Councillor Matthews said. "Members raised these issues directly and scrutinised the application, asking challenging questions throughout the debate."
He explained that the committee felt compelled to approve the application due to the government’s national housing targets, the requirements of the National Planning Policy Framework, and a lack of sufficient housing land supply within Wiltshire. Councillor Howard Greenman, a member of the planning committee, added that while committee members were largely dissatisfied with the necessity of the decision, they felt there was limited realistic scope for refusal under the current national planning guidelines.
Source: Swindon Advertiser - Lifestyle · View original