KENNET district councillors are to visit Manor Farmyard in Urchfont before deciding whether to grant planning permission for 22 houses.

Kennet planning officers had recommended granting planning permission but councillors decided to visit the site after hearing the extent of opposition from Urchfont residents .

About 20 residents were in the public gallery at the regulatory committee meeting at Kennet's offices in Devizes last Thursday.

A petition signed by 127 people has been sent to Kennet along with over 120 letters of objection with just one letter of support.

Protesters believe the proposed housing development by Charles Church would destroy the picturesque appearance of Urchfont and lead to increased traffic congestion.

Of the 22 houses proposed, nine would be affordable housing.

Kennet refused a previous application by Charles Church on the same site for 14 houses. Charles Church has appealed against the refusal but the appeal is being held in abeyance until this application is decided.