A DEVELOPER has criticised planners for blocking proposals to develop derelict brownfield sites.

Charles Tull, of Box-based Tull Properties, says West Wiltshire District Council is failing to follow government guidelines encouraging local authorities to build houses on redundant industrial sites.

A string of setbacks has plagued his proposal to develop the old GEC site in Beanacre Road, Melksham, and he is appealing against a district council decision stopping him from building 22 houses on land in Strattons Walk in the town.

Mr Tull said: "Beanacre Park is exactly the kind of site the government are targeting for redevelopment. We have been working over the last 10 years to try to complete the regeneration of this site and we have looked at many different schemes including commercial and retail uses.

"The current proposals present a fantastic opportunity to see this important site redeveloped. As well as fitting in entirely with government guidance it will allow the town to grow without eating up further greenfield land."

Plans to build up to 1,000 new houses on fields off Spa Road has angered Mr Tull, who will air his frustrations at a meeting with councillors next week.

Last month, the developer was told his proposal to build houses on the former GEC factory site could be jeopardised because planners have made no provision for housing.

Instead, calling it a site of opportunity, they want the land to be used for employment and industry.

Mr Tull has already ruled out this option because more than 300 retail and leisure businesses have rejected a move to the site.

The district council refused his application to tear down a disused warehouse in Strattons Walk and replace it with 22 houses because they did not feel he was making enough of a contribution towards education and affordable housing in the area.

If a planning inspectorate agrees next month, the local authority is hoping to force developers to make a contribution when they build 15 houses or more. The level is currently 25.

But Mr Tull feels it is unacceptable to turn down a proposal before the new legislation comes into force.

A spokesman for the district council said: "We are very much in favour of re-developing brownfield land but it has to be the right development for the land.

"A couple of years ago we carried out a study which identified suitable brownfield land for development."