Housing plans off A420 junction in Chippenham spark anger

An occupant of 8 Mount Pleasant, just off the A420 Bristol Road at Bumpers Farm Roundabout in Chippenham, has submitted outline plans to build two additional dwellings in the space to the rear of the property.

The proposal has been strongly opposed by others living on the street and Chippenham Town Council has recommended that Wiltshire Council rejects the application.

Speaking at a town council planning meeting, retired police officer Richard Tottle, who lives nearby in Blackberry Close, spoke against the development.

He said: “My immediate reaction on seeing the ground plan was that of safety.

“Before a minimum of two cars are introduced to the already cramped area, it is plain to see there isn’t enough room for the fire brigade to deploy safely and effectively. 

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Mount Pleasant (Image: Newsquest)

“My fears then turned to the invasion of my family’s privacy, the whole rear aspect of my property will be overlooked.

“It seems to me this application is nothing more than an attempt to add value to the existing property with no consideration or thought to the area and community that literally surrounds it.”

Mr Tottle added that the scheme would block light into his property and warned a “haven” for wildlife would be lost.

Similar concerns were raised by other residents including Joanna and Peter Smith who claimed there would be a “total loss of privacy” for surrounding houses.

They also believe the plans are “overbearing” and would create a “huge sense of oppression.”

Several residents pointed out that increased traffic on the cul-de-sac could lead to “health and safety concerns” in the area, which sits on the junction of two busy A-roads.

Mount Pleasant (Image: Newsquest)

Town councillors objected to the proposal because they believe it would be “detrimental to the character” of the area.

BBA Architects director Adam Brill, who is acting as an agent on behalf of the applicant, said they did not wish to comment on the details of the application until the end of the council’s consultation period.

He added: “This outline application is currently under consultation until September 9, 2024.

“Therefore we would not wish to comment on the details of the proposals until all consultations have been returned.

“We are aware of the concerns raised by the residents and town councillors and will address these with the case officer in due course.”

Following the end of this consultation period Wiltshire Council will determine the application, with a current decision deadline of October 2.