A developer has gained approval for new plans for 21 homes in Sutton Benger that aim to answer concerns on flooding.

Developer Gleeson was granted permission to build at Hazelwood Farm in July last year, but the site has been taken over by Redrow which also owns the Faccenda development next door.

Redrow’s plans, approved by Wiltshire Council on Wednesday last week, include £30,000 to be spent on a culvert so more water can flow under the Seagry Road bridge.

The area was flooded late in 2012 and 2013, badly damaging houses on Seagry Road.

Gleeson’s plans would have led to some gardens for the new houses and a wildlife corridor being built in a flood risk zone, but now these areas will be undeveloped.

Wiltshire councillor Howard Greenman, whose Kington division includes Sutton Benger, cited flood risk when he called the application in to be discussed by councillors.

He said: “There was two feet of water at the entrance to Hazelwood. I suspect Redrow won’t be making an advertising splurge on that.”

Some councillors, including Glenis Ansell representing Calne North, remained worried about flooding despite changes in the plans.

Coun Ansell said: “If the flood prevention measures work that’s wonderful, and I really pray that they do, but if they don’t the householders will face an enormous hike in their insurance.”

Councillor Toby Sturgis, representing Brinkworth, said it would be unwise to risk a planning appeal.

Redrow will use natural stone for street-facing elevations along Seagry Road instead of rendered stone.

It will spend money on a natural wood play area, which has further upset residents hoping to see the park in Chestnut Road renovated with section 106 money.

Parish councillor Glenda Woodville said she contacted Redrow after the meeting to ask if they would consider using the funding for the existing park. She said: “The section 106 agreement linked to an earlier planning application on this site included a contribution of £111,000 for off-site open space and play provision.”