RESIDENTS have raised a storm of protest over plans to build new homes to pay for a £500,000 extension at a Chippenham primary school.

More than 60 people have complained to North Wiltshire District Council about plans to build houses on land at Englands, off Wood Lane, but the land deal could give Charter Primary School the money to pay for seven new classrooms.

North Wiltshire District Council's development control committee will consider the outline application for residential development of the 1.37 hectare site on Wednesday.

Objectors sent 69 letters accepting the principle of development on the site, but raising concerns about the layout plans, including the size of the houses, landscaping, and the problems of disturbance while the homes are built.

Planning officers admitted the suggested layout had some shortcomings and recommended councillors delegate the decision.

They agreed to try and work out a satisfactory development, including some affordable housing.

If the scheme goes ahead, the Borough Lands Charity, which owns the land, will hand over money from the sale to pay for the extension.