The developers of a new residential project on the site of Wadworth Brewery have played down concerns about its potential impact on traffic congestion.

Their plans for the historic brewery, which will be disused from spring 2023, involve the construction of 100 new homes on the brownfield site.

The plans were showcased to locals at a public exhibition on Wednesday, December 14, sparking debate amongst members of the public about the impact of an influx of new homes into the town.

But Backhouse’s Land and Planning manager Stuart Walter has insisted that the increase in traffic congestion will not necessarily be significant.

He said: “The brewery have up to 50 staff working at any point so there are already a lot of vehicles that come in and there are a lot of deliveries that go in out.

“We’re assessing what is going on at the moment with traffic because it will be interesting to know what the current usage is and how it weighs up against the new usage.

“We’re not going from a greenfield to 100 homes, we’re starting from a higher point and that’s really important.”

The Wiltshire Gazette and Herald: The plans were heavily scrutinised by interested locals.The plans were heavily scrutinised by interested locals. (Image: Newsquest)

Vince Prescott, an associate architect for Anderson Holland Green, who designed the plans, argued that the development would encourage the town council to tackle existing traffic issues.

He said: “In many towns traffic is always an issue. It’s an existing issue and we’re not necessarily contributing much to it.

“There will be additional traffic but ultimately the best place for a residential development is within walking distance of the town centre so car ownership will be minimal compared to if you built outside of the town.

“I think it’s an outward strategy that needs to be considered in terms of how the council improve traffic long term.”

Backhouse also argued that the development will meet the need for new homes locally.

Mr Walter added: “There is obviously a massive need for housing wherever you are in the country. It’s good to bring a site forward that focuses on a local and national political agenda… that’s why we’re quite excited for this one.”

Locals will be relieved that Backhouse confirmed they are not purchasing the historic red brick brewery buildings which will be preserved.

Mr Prescott added: “It’s massively important. Devizes brewery is very focal across the town and it would be a crime to remove it.”

Wadworth managing director Toby Bartholomew said: “We’re retaining the grade II listed part of the site… we think the development is right for Devizes.”