Decision delayed on controversial Forest housing

A DECISION on plans  to build a new housing estate in Melksham Forest has been pushed back to allow more time for people to comment on the planning application.

Wiltshire Council originally expected to have decided on the controversial plans by 30th September, but extended the public consultation until this Friday, 4th November.

A developer has applied to build 152 homes on land near Woodrow Road, in a move that has angered the local community.

The council has registered 123 letters from the public, many of them opposing the plan. Letters of objection have also been sent by local MP Michelle Donelan and the councils in Melksham Without, Melksham Town and Lacock.

County councillor for Melksham Without North, Terry Chivers, has called in the application for special consideration. People living in the area also set up a campaign group to fight against the development.

There are widespread concerns about the effect a large increase in traffic would have on the area, which is on a rural edge of the town. People have also raised fears about potential flooding in the area and the loss of countryside.

To have your say or read other people’s comments go to the planning search at www.wiltshire.gov.uk and use reference number 16/05644/OUT.