Ernie Clark. Hilperton Division, Wiltshire Council.

Amended plans have been submitted by developer.
Yet another set of amended plans has been delivered to the District Council.

Many, but not all, of the concerns relating to affordable housing have been addressed, but there are still a number of issues which are unlikely to find favour with local residents. Firstly, access is still being proposed via Norris Road and Hanewell Rise using the rather suspect mini roundabout in Devizes Road. In addition, the number of proposed properties is still in excess of the number indentified by the Local Plan Inspector; and remember, it was only his report that formally 'opened' this site for development.

If the developers had applied for a smaller number of houses, with a more suitable layout of both the development and the affordable housing aspect, they could almost be built by now.

Of course, one could argue "Why aren't the District Council planning officers invoking the same policy quoted by Aaron Smith in his report to application 04/01362 back in September?" This stated '....However, due to the spacious character of the properties of **** with extensive gardens, it is considered that a (sic) higher density development would be uncharacteristic of the immediate vicinity.

New housing development of whatever scale should not be viewed in isolation. Considerations of design and layout must be informed by the wider context, having regard not just to any immediate neighbouring buildings but the townscape and landscape of the wider locality. The local pattern of streets and spaces, building traditions and materials should all help to determine the character and identity of a development.'

No doubt time, and the District Council planning committee, will tell.