RESIDENTS living in and around Newby Acre in Marlborough have voiced their dismay at plans for two new homes they fear would have a significant impact on the area, cause privacy issues and take away valuable parking spaces.

The proposal by housing company Aster is to build a three-bed three storey house and a two-bed two storey detached house, plus a garage and parking on the grassy piece of land that escaped development when the estate was first built more than 30 years ago,

It is between houses 47 and 53 and in front of houses 41 and 38 and is currently used for parking.

Despite the plans stating four public parking spaces would be created to compensate for the ones lost, residents are not convinced as parking is already a problem in the street.

“It might seem like a little development but it is not to us,” said Newby Acre resident of 32 years Maria Scarr, 53, whose house would overlook the proposed homes.

“With parking already being an issue, this poses a great risk to safety, for both car users and pedestrians.

“It will have a substantial impact on the light we have in our already overshadowed garden and house and the majority of residents within the whole of the area, not just Newby Acre, strongly oppose this.”

The Wiltshire Gazette and Herald:

Residents have enlisted the support of several Marlborough councillors and have also criticised Aster for describing it as a ‘modest’ development in the application.

They also strongly dispute the comments it has been designed to not cause harm to the surrounding properties.

However, Aster says in their application it will be beneficial by providing houses that are 'lower-than-average-cost' where 'affordability is a key issue in the town.'

Wiltshire Council is expected to make a decision on the plans by December 15.