PLANS to build 24 new homes in Highworth have been given the go ahead despite concerns that trees were being put before people.

Linden Homes was last night given permission to build six houses and 18 apartments on the former Co-op store site at Cherry Orchard, Highworth.

But concerns were raised that the health of a tree was being put above the wishes of people after local residents were told the development could not be moved slightly away from their homes because it would endanger a mature beech.

"I find it staggering that a tree comes before people," said Coun Jemima Milton (Con, Wroughton and Chiseldon).

"It does seem sad. It is a lovely tree but why do we put trees before people?"

Council arboricultural officers had recommended that no development be allowed within 15m of the beech tree but residents had asked that the building be moved slightly nearer so it could be further away from neighbouring homes.

Coun Antony Peake (Con, Highworth) backed their view.

"I just feel that if we had a bit more leeway on this tree everybody would be happy," he said.

But after being told the 15m exclusion zone had to remain councillors voted in favour of the plans.

Nicky Green, representing Linden Homes, had earlier told the meeting that the company had made significant changes to the plans to address concerns.

"As a result you have a scheme before you which we feel is right for this location in Highworth," she said.