Views still wanted as Westbury hospital decision looms

THERE is still a chance to have your say on plans to build 60 houses on the site of Westbury hospital, as Wiltshire Council prepares to make its decision later this month.

The plan to demolish the hospital and build houses was submitted in November last year, and a final decision is expected by Monday 22nd February. The public consultation was reopened last month after initially closing on New Year’s Day. Online and postal comments will continue to be accepted until Wednesday 17th February.

The application has so far caused uproar amongst local residents and has drawn what a council officer described as “a substantial level of public objection.” Over 100 letters of objection were received by the council in November and December, as well as one from Westbury Town Council.

However, town councillor Ian Cunningham  warned recently that public opinion is not usually considered a planning matter and a large objection will not necessarily affect Wiltshire Council’s decision.

If permission is granted  the NHS is expected to sell the land to a property developer. There has been no indication to what might happen if it is refused.

To see the full plans or submit your comments, go to the planning search at www.wiltshire.gov.uk and enter reference number 15/11604/OUT.