Major Wiltshire scheme set for step forward

Plans for a major mixed-use development in Wiltshire – which has been designed to yield a range of economic benefits for the area – are to go before committee next week.Barratt Homes is behind the application, which concerns land to the west of Westbury Road in Warminster which is understood to be used for a mixture of agricultural purposes including crop growing and for cattle farming.The application is for outline permission to bring forward up to 205 homes, alongside a community hub, public open space, access, infrastructure and associated works.A total of 66 letters of objection have been received, with a host of concerns raised including a flooding risk, there being “no need established” and “too high a density” of housing.However, a report drawn up ahead of Wiltshire Council’s planning committee meeting on 1 November noted that there are “no adverse impacts that would significantly and demonstrably outweigh the benefits that this particular development in this location on the edge of a sustainable settlement identified for growth would bring”.”The proposal would relate well to the spatial form of Warminster using existing road infrastructure and would offer an accessible walking route into the town and its services and facilities,” it added.”The application site would also make S106 contributions to the bus service and pre-school. The provision of a community hub would be of a benefit to the new and existing community.”Fundamentally, the site would make an important contribution to the current identified housing need in Wiltshire without causing other demonstrable harm.”The recommendation is that the committee gives delegated authority to the head of development management to grant planning permission following receipt of written confirmation from Natural England that it is satisfied with the council’s Ecology Team’s conclusion that the development would not result in significant or harmful ecological effects; and the completion of a S106 planning obligation.