MEMBERS of Marlborough Development Trust are opposing plans to convert a business training centre into homes.

This decision to object to change of use plans for the former Savernake Forest Hotel was the first time the trust, a non elected group, had become involved in what could be seen as a political decision.

There was difference of opinion among its members at their meeting on Thursday over whether the trust should become involved in planning issues.

After discussion it was agreed that as one of the reasons the trust was established was to promote better business opportunities for the area, it was proper for its members to comment on plans affecting a business property.

After the Savernake Forest Hotel closed it became a business training and conference centre. Now the owners want to convert the buildings into four homes.

Members of the trust said they would regret seeing premises used for a business being turned into homes.

Clyde Nancarrow, who heads the trust's tourism group, said: "We should make the point that we would prefer to see it retained as an employment site."

Coun Joan Davies, chairman of Savernake Parish Council, said she did not think the trust should become involved in political or planning matters.

But, after a show of hands, there was a clear majority among members in favour of lodging an objection to the change of use plans, although four members abstained from voting.