PLANS to build new roads through the Lydiards and across the rural buffer to Swindon have been opposed by North Wiltshire district councillors.

A report following a transport study called SWARMMS (South West Area Multi-Modal Study) included the proposals in a report about long-term transport options to the South West Regional Assembly on July 12.

The study investigated transport solutions for London and the South West.

"I noted that the district council was not invited to the meeting but we decided to go anyway," said Coun Ruth Coleman. "We discovered the proposals to resolve transport difficulties in our area, between Wootton Bassett and Swindon."

She said the suggested new road would cross the rural buffer.

"The buffer was put there for a purpose," she said. "People in the Wootton Bassett area are anxious. If a new road connects them to Swindon, there may be housing development going with it."

Coun Coleman attended the meeting of the assembly, raised her concerns about the proposals and requested further study was made into public transport solutions to take away the need for the new road.

She was also annoyed the SWARMMS report had not included any consultation with the district council. The Swindon area was highlighted because of congestion on the roads, including the M4 junctions 15 and 16, and poor public transport.

Key recommendations included major improvements to public transport, a park and ride, and new road links to take the pressure off the M4. Once the study and consultations are complete, recommendations will be made to the Secretary of State for Transport.