Town residents express fears over 200 new homes

Proposals for 200 new homes in a Wiltshire town have angered some local residents.

People in Malmesbury have voiced their unhappiness on social media about the proposed new development for the north-east corner of the town, including the impact it would have on existing infrastructure in the area and whether new houses are actually needed.

Gleeson Land has announced its intention to apply to Wiltshire Council for planning permission and has asked for feedback from local residents in advance.

The developer has promised a diverse range of homes, 40% of which is due to be classed as affordable housing, adding the development offers a "positive opportunity to address Wiltshire's housing needs".

Users of a community Facebook group responded to a post by a group member, which included a picture of a leaflet from Gleeson Land asking for feedback on the proposed development, to be situated between Filands and Whychurch Farm.

One resident wrote: "Just say nooooooooooooo! We have enough houses, reminder: it's our town not Gleesons!

Another group member said: "We need to get a demand for a surgery. Because it’s getting ridiculous."

Others were concerned about the impact building on the site would have on drainage in the town, following flooding last month.

The 200 homes mentioned on the leaflet include 71 homes already approved from a previous planning application.

The new site, described as Phase 4 on the developer's leaflet, would include walking paths and a play space in addition to the new housing.

Residents were encouraged in the leaflet to provide feedback before the company submits a planning application later this year. The closing date for responses was 6 December.

Wiltshire and Malmesbury Town Councillor Gavin Grant also posted on the social media page, in response to concerns over a lack of proposed amenities, that if a "big single application had been agreed, the developers would have to have paid towards local services".

"Firms like Gleeson know that, so land is parcelled up for speculative applications for smaller numbers of houses on each estate.

"That means our local healthcare needs are not considered and no financial contribution is made."

He added that should the application be approved by the council's planning officer, he would call for a full committee vote on the matter.

A spokesperson from Gleeson Land said: "In line with planning guidelines, we intend to submit a new outline planning application for up to 200 homes on this site, 71 of which already have planning consent.

"As well as providing a policy compliant mix of market and affordable housing to meet local needs, this development will meet the council's infrastructure and green space requirements.

"If successful, this scheme will offer a positive opportunity to address Wiltshire's housing needs in a sustainable location. In turn, this will help the local authority achieve the robust housing targets announced recently by the current government."

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