DEVIZES will benefit from nearly £1 million of community improvements if the proposed redevelopment of Le Marchant Barracks goes ahead.

Kennet District Council is today expected to approve the outline plan to build 132 homes. Broadway Malyan Planning Ltd has submitted the plan on behalf of Defence Estates. The barracks will be converted and homes will be built on the parade ground.

The package of community benefits offered by the developers include £396,000 for a new primary school at Quakers Walk and £145,200 for an extension at Devizes School; 50 per cent affordable homes, either for rent through a housing association or low-cost on the open market; an equipped toddler play area with £57,300 for maintenance and insurance; a 2,900 square metre play area; £63,360 towards upgrading the equipment on the present play area; £50,160 towards improving adult sports pitches; £23,000 for a pedestrian crossing on London Road, £12,000 for bus stops; £9,000 for cycle and pedestrian links and £158,400 towards sustainable transport improvements.