Campaigners opposed to proposals to build 350 houses in the north of Calne hope developers lose their appeal at a public inquiry, fearing a success would set a precedent for future development.

Robert Hitchins Ltd applied for planning permission to build on land known as Calne Marsh, off Sandpit Road and Abberd Way, in June last year and plans were refused in February.

The company will challenge the decision at a planning inquiry later this year, and members of the Save Calne Marsh group hope the appeal will fail.

Chairman Steve Marshall, of Oxford Road, said: “We know that Robert Hitchins Ltd own parcels of land to the east of Calne Marsh right around the town to the A4 London Road.

“If they are granted this appeal then future applications are more likely to succeed. They will develop Calne in penny packets and by stealth, in the face of local objections making it a huge dormitory town with insufficient local infrastructure and supporting services.”

The applicant appealed against the refusal on the basis there is a shortage of housing land in and around Calne.

Mr Marshall said: “There are 232 properties for sale advertised on one housing website within three miles of the centre of Calne for less than £300,000. That hardly constitutes a shortfall”

The former North Wiltshire District Council, which rejected the plans, received 243 letters of objection to the scheme and a 600-signature petition.