Town asks developers for a frank discussion (From The Wiltshire Gazette and Herald)

Town asks developers for a frank discussion

Wootton Bassett Town Council is calling for a frank discussion with developers KingsOak after concerns were voiced over plans for the former St Ivel site.

At a meeting last week, members of the planning committee highlighted the "urgent need" for more two-bedroom houses in the town to accommodate first time buyers.

They felt the developer's outline application included too many four and five bedroom houses and that they had drifted from the original development brief.

Coun Steve Walls told the meeting: "My concern is that they've tried very hard to play off community facilities for not giving more affordable houses.

"I don't honestly believe this business about four and five bed houses. I think it's more profitable and that's why they want to build them."

Coun Pete Roberts said: "I would like to see KingsOak do what Wainhomes have done and be more open. From day one they made it quite clear that they were going to play hard ball.

"At the moment it seems that we just have to listen to what they want. KingsOak knew that brief was in existence before they bought the site and I hope they can come back round the table and listen to these views."

Coun Walls echoed the sentiments. "The development brief should be the basis of development, not them just starting from scratch," he said.

He also raised concerns about the future use of Station House and parking: "We knew that traffic was going to be a problem but I don't think they have really taken this aspect seriously. I think they need to look again at the routes into the site."

Coun Olivia Thomas said: "I think it's incredibly important to local people that these (affordable) homes are going to be built."

Earlier in the meeting residents voiced similar concerns. Joan Gardner, of Noredown Way, was unhappy with the proposed mix of houses and Georgina Mason, of Vowley View, was concerned about trees being felled.

The town council has asked KingsOak for a meeting to discuss the plans.