HOUSING developers have applied for permission to build 145 new houses on land at The Ham but the application has come under fire from local residents.
The application for outline planning permission was submitted in July by developers Taylor Wimpey. It comes roughly a year after a public consultation which saw concerns raised about the site.
72 people submitted comments to the firm when the plans were revealed in 2014; 71% of whom said they did not think there was a need for more housing in Westbury. 74% said they did not think the town’s facilities and services could support the development.
A campaign group – Stop Glenmore Farm Development – was formed by local residents to oppose the plans. The group is now encouraging local people to contact Wiltshire Council with their concerns about the new proposal.
A spokesperson for the group, Tracy Griffin said, “There is a big case against the development because it’s right on the outskirts of the town, it’s outside the settlement boundary in Wiltshire Core Strategy, and a long way from schools, shops and community facilities, so less sustainable than other potential housing sites in the town.
“The build would also increase the traffic on an already congested and difficult piece of road.
“Combined with developments at the Mead and Slag Lane, the new residents would add pressure to the schools, shops and NHS facilities in the town.
“And the Strategic Plan of Wiltshire Council, which looks at housing requirements to 2026, did not include this area for housing.
“The council has a consultation period now until Friday 28th August for individuals to register their comments or opposition on their planning website – we would urge everyone to do this.”
The group also has a Facebook page – Stop Glenmore Farm Development – where issues surrounding the plans are discussed.
To submit a comment to Wiltshire Council, search planning application 15/07071/OUT on www.wiltshire.gov.uk or by writing to the county council’s planning department.
