HEALTH chiefs will not step in to block thousands of homes being built on Swindon's Front Garden.

NHS bosses said there was not enough medical evidence to oppose the massive development project.

Campaigners have urged a veto on the scheme amid fears the wetland Front Garden site would harm future residents.

Excessively damp land has been linked by some scientific studies to increased respiratory illnesses and other problems.

But Jane Leaman, the director of public health at Swindon Primary Care Trust, ruled out the claims.

She said: "It is felt there is no robust evidence to suggest there are any health risks to people who will live in this area.

"Swindon Borough Council has undertaken the planning assessment on the submitted proposal, which includes a review of the primary impacts on health."

She said noise and pollution were the main concerns and that steps would be taken to control any risks from them.

And she revealed designers had been asked to draw up blueprints that would actually help the health of future Front Garden residents.

She said: "The proposal also includes cycle and safe walking routes and more accessible green spaces which will provide health benefits."