More than 100 residents attended a Melksham Without Parish Council meeting to voice their views on a controversial proposal by Gompels Healthcare Ltd to build a new warehouse on the outskirts of Bowerhill.
The application seeks permission for a warehouse, office space, and parking facilities on 5.5 hectares of land south of the A365 Bath Road, west of Turnpike Garage. Gompels, which has operated in the town since 1967, says the development is vital to its future, following a six-year search for a suitable site. The company states it will create 275 new jobs and safeguard many existing roles.
At the meeting on Tuesday 4th February, residents expressed both support and strong opposition. Concerns were raised over the loss of agricultural land and green space, as well as increased traffic from heavy goods vehicles.
A resident of a nearby Grade II-listed property warned of the impact on heritage assets, saying, “This warehouse will have a huge impact on the farmhouse and surrounding fields. It will set a precedent – if this goes ahead, all the fields around us could be developed.”
Another resident argued that property values would be affected, saying, “It’s just so wrong, and it will have an enormous financial impact on nearby homes.”
However, supporters highlighted the economic benefits of the expansion. Speaking at the meeting, Gompels owner Sam Gompels defended the plan, stating, “The sad fact is there really are no other viable sites. We’ve tried for six years. The visual impact is a concern, which is why we’ve proposed visual screening. This application provides more screening and more wildlife than a ploughed field.
“It’s not just about a warehouse—it’s about the future of Melksham. It’s rare that someone wants to invest £40 million in the town and create 275 jobs.”
Some residents questioned whether other locations had been fully explored. Former Bowerhill resident Cllr Mike Sankey suggested a land swap, saying, “The application states all other options have been exhausted, but to me, the Bowerhill Sports Fields haven’t been considered. I suggest the parish council and applicant explore this as a compromise.”
Melksham Without Parish Council ultimately chose not to object to the planning application but called for several conditions, including more mature planting to screen the development, a graduated colour scheme to reduce visual impact, and improvements to footpaths and crossings for cyclists and pedestrians.
Parish clerk Teresa Strange explained, “The council respects the many points raised by residents but can only consider material planning matters. Issues such as loss of view, property values, or alternative business strategies for Gompels are not within our remit.
“The parish council is keen to safeguard existing jobs and create employment opportunities. With large housing developments planned and the recent closure of Cooper Tires, we feel strongly that Melksham must not become a dormitory town – jobs must be provided for both current and future residents.”
The application can be viewed on Wiltshire Council’s planning portal: https://development.wiltshire.gov.uk/pr/s.
Pictured: a plan of the site
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