A PLANNING appeal has been launched after Wiltshire Council refused a bid to build 26 houses near Devizes. 

The bid by Worton LVA LLP would have seen 26 houses and associated infrastructure built on land at Sandleaze Farm.

Planning officers at the council knocked back the bid for a number of reasons but chief among those was the number of houses and the location came into conflict with the core strategy. 

Officers wrote: “The proposed development will result in a permanent change to the character of the site and its use, resulting in change from agricultural use and character to that of urban development. 

“The development would not conserve nor enhance the existing undeveloped rural character of the site and would have a harmful impact upon local landscape character.”

It was also noted that the site did not plan the necessary affordable housing. 

Those looking to make a comment on the appeal need to contact the Planning Inspectorate by August 18, 2021.  A date for the appeal has yet to be set.