CONCERNS have been raised over plans to build a petrol station and supermarket in North Bradley.

If the planning application, submitted by Forelle Estates for land at the junction of Westbury Road and Phillips Way, is approved, the area will welcome a 12-pump filling station, mini Budgens supermarket and cafe.

David Feather, 77, of Broadley Park, North Bradley, is concerned about the impact the development might have on wildlife.

He said: “The proposed site is right next to a lake which has been there for quite some years and has become a popular spot for wildlife. It goes against the planning rules and does not fall in line with the core strategy.

“The whole thing seems very over the top. It’s a selfish development designed for the benefit of the developers, who clearly haven’t taken residents’ concerns into account.

“We are trying to keep Trowbridge separate but this is yet another creeping development which puts that in jeopardy. I will be submitting a rejection letter and I hope others will, too.”

But Cllr Horace Prickett, of North Bradley Parish Council, thinks the development would be an “asset” to the community and hopes Wiltshire Council gives it the go-ahead.

He said: “The parish council has had lots of discussions with the developer and we feel satisfied that some early reservations have been settled.

“In fact I can think of no reason why it shouldn’t be approved – it will be a real enhancement to the area.

“The pond is badly silted up and no longer capable of taking the excess water it is designed for, as it demonstrated in November when it nearly flooded.

“For that reason there is no longer much wildlife in it so I don’t think that will be a problem.

“Furthermore it would be great to have a Budgens nearby. The company has a very good reputation locally and it would be an asset to the village.”

The consultation period ends on Monday, February 20, and Wiltshire Council’s planners aim to have made a decision by Thursday, March 9.

To view the full plans and submit feedback, search for 16/12347/FUL on Wiltshire Council’s website.