Wiltshire residents petition against new homes off the A4

Planning and urban design group Origin3 recently advertised a public consultation as they draw up new proposals for the development of land to the north of the A4 Bath Road, near Corsham.

Detailed planning permission was granted for the redevelopment of the land, which sits near the junction with Bradford Road, seven years ago.

This followed a lengthy planning row between Wiltshire Council and former applicants Gladman Developments Ltd.

While the previous applicant’s permission lapsed over issues relating to the Bath Stone mine below the site, Origin3 says new, unrelated developers have a “sustainable solution” to prevent damage to the operation.

These latest plans are currently being finalised ahead of a potential planning application this spring.

The proposed site off the A4 (Image: Newsquest)

This would include 150 new homes alongside public open space, a children’s play area, and a new roundabout on the A4.

But residents remain concerned about the impact of a housing development on the mine, as well as increased traffic and the loss of green space in the area.

Jennifer Newman started a petition against the plans, which has received over 200 signatures.

She said: “This not only destroys the green space leading into Corsham, a historic setting, but raises many other issues.

“How will the town accommodate this development? 

“Can the A4 manage the extra traffic? 

“How can these houses be built over the tunnel structure beneath? 

“This has been proved to be unviable in the past so why is this this proposed again?”

The site off the A4 (Image: Newsquest)

Ms Newman has urged residents to oppose any plans before they are brought to Wiltshire Council.

She added: “The residents of Corsham and surrounding areas need to make their voices heard as soon as possible before a planning application.

“Sign this petition if you feel strongly about saving this green space, please. Once it’s gone it’s gone.”

Tony Clark, of The Pickwick Association, says the group will need to see the detailed plans before commenting but added that they will “almost certainly” oppose the development.

He added: “There’s no need for building on this particular site, there’s a lot of opposition to it.”

Origin3 was approached for comment.

The firm says the development would create a “well-connected and sustainable place that provides much-needed homes.”

The online public consultation will run from March 20 to April 3 and residents will be able to view the plans at the Tippett Room in Springfield Community Campus from 3pm to 7pm on Monday, March 25.