Ernie Clark. Hilperton Division, Wiltshire Council.

Developers come back for a fourth try ...
Developers already have permission for a pub, but as the land was previously designated for a medical centre it would be necessary to amend the legal agreement. This has been the sticking point, with councillors refusing to do so while there remains the slightest hope of getting a surgery. Developers say there is no commercial interest in any kind of mainstream medical facility, and have started legal action against the council to force a change of policy. Three times, WWDC councillors have decided to stay with the current legal agreement requiring a medical centre at the local centre. They have repeatedly felt that the 'marketing exercise' by the developers to see if they could find someone interested in building a medical centre had been unconvincing and half-hearted.

This has led to the curious position whereby the land has planning permission for a pub (given by a government inspector after refusals by the district council), but the pub can't be built because of the pre-existing legal agreement requiring the medical centre.

Since the matter last went to committee (September 2007) the developers claim to have continued to market the site for medical use but without any interest. They state this is because the site is too small and would have inadequate parking.

The Primary Care Trust - the most likely user in the past - has shown no interest in it, but that really comes as no surprise.

Local opinion favours the medical centre option, but a few people take the view that a pub on the site would be welcome.

Planning officers now point out that there is now a pharmacy at the local centre, so medical needs are being met to some extent!

Anyone wishing to speak at the open forum must register before 6.55pm on July 31st, either by registering on the night or by phoning 01225 776655, asking for 'member support' and 'pre-registering'.

The meeting is at 7.00pm in the council offices, Bradley Road next Thursday.