A PLAN to extend the village hall at Compton Bassett has been given the green light despite fears of extra noise and car parking congestion on the Briarleaze estate.

Members of North Wiltshire District Council's development control committee approved the plans at a meeting last week.

Calne Town Council raised concerns about a possible increase in the level of noise and the serious lack of parking space.

Five villagers also wrote to the district council questioning the need for the extension.

The hall management committee wants to increase the size of the hall by about 38 square metres, which would bring the hall to within 21 metres of the nearest home.

The extension will provide a rear stage area with toilets.

Coun Toby Sturgis said the extension would not increase the capacity of the hall so should not affect the car parking problems.

"On planning grounds there is no reason to refuse," he said.

The plans were also supported by Coun Nancy Bryant.

"This is a very proactive village, and we always do out best to support the villages."

l But councillors turned down plans to build a new agricultural access on land at Allington Grange after residents complained it would create a disturbance and spoil their quality of life.

Officers had recommended approving the plans.

Coun Jane Scott said: "I have 30 hectares and I have no hard roadways across my land and there are not many farmers that have. It isn't necessary.

"It's totally inappropriate and not good agricultural practice."