BUILDING work on a controversial high-density housing development next to Lawn conservation area has been delayed because of a mistake made by the government planning inspector.

Planning permission for the 33-flat scheme on Old Mill Lane was granted on appeal after Swindon Council initially turned it down. And work was set to start in March.

But construction has been held up because the government inspector who heard the appeal mistakenly granted planning permission for 39 flats rather than 33. Now developers are facing legal delays whilst the correct planning permission is issued.

Swindon Council spokesman Lynda Fleming said the matter is likely to take several weeks at least to resolve.

The four-storey flats scheme will overlook The Weavers retirement flats and several properties on Bouverie Avenue.

Old Town councillor Mike Bawden (Con) has described the development as "environmentally disastrous".