PLANS to build a £1 million housing development on the site of a former garage in Market Lavington, near Devizes, have been given the go-ahead, despite objections by villagers.

The former Shires garage deteriorated and became a target for vandals after it closed four years ago.

Kennet District councillor John Reid, who had favoured shops for the site, said: I felt very stongly this site should remain for employment purposes. I think it is a terrible shame.

The garage had employed 13 full-time staff and two part-time staff.

Coun Reid said: I am bitterly disappointed. There is little employment land left in the rural areas of Kennet and now we have lost this as well.

A two-day planning inquiry was held in March after Kennet District Council refused permission for two housing schemes on the site because under its planning rules, the Church Street site was designated for employment.

The appeal was allowed, which means the landowner can build five four and five-bedroom houses with garages on the site.

The land, which is owned by a family trust, is to be sold for development now planning permission has been granted.

Chris Harris, who is acting on behalf of the trustees for the Harris family, which originally came from Calne, said he was very pleased with the decision.

He said: We hope to sell the land to a developer as soon as possible so this bomb site can be turned into something which could enhance the village."