After a three-year planning row, a decision is looming on hugely controversial plans for over 50 homes in a Wiltshire town.
Outline planning permission for 57 homes on disused land, to the north of Quakers Road in Devizes, was granted on appeal last year, after a proposal was lodged in 2021.
In March, developer Redcliffe Homes submitted more detailed plans for a 54-home development on the site, which was previously part of Wiltshire Police’s HQ on London Road.
While a decision had been due by the end of September, this has been pushed back due to the submission of revised plans in August, following objections from residents and town councillors.
Devizes Town Council had objected to the original plans and, following a planning committee meeting, has voiced its objection to the revised scheme.
Councillors fear the development would create traffic congestion issues in the area and are particularly concerned about the impact of large vehicles like bin lorries.
READ MORE: Plan for new homes on Wiltshire Police land in Devizes approved
“With a proposed dog leg route for large vehicles such as refuse collection through the existing Parkfields Estate to the new estate having a negative impact on traffic movement within Parkfields.”
They continued: “And proposed double yellow lines significantly impacting on those residents who have no off-street parking, and have to park on the highways, creating a problem that currently does not exist.
“The application continues to fail to deal with previous objections regarding managing increased traffic flow which will result in congestion between London Road and the access roads.”
Multiple residents have echoed these fears, arguing the area is already “extremely busy.”
In total, the application has nearly 100 responses, including many from concerned residents.
The application added: “Overall, the proposed development represents a harmonious blend of residential, green, and transportation infrastructure, poised to enrich the local landscape and enhance the quality of life for existing and potential residents.
“Through careful consideration of design principles and a commitment to creating a vibrant and sustainable community, this proposal is believed to hold tremendous promise for the future.”
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