FED-up Trowbridge residents have slammed a housebuilder for doing as the ‘bare minimum’ in fixing their homes and responding to their complaints.

Many residents who live on the Castle Mead estate have been battling with Persimmon for months and even years to fix housing ‘defects’ at their new-build homes.

Thirsk Drive resident Stewart Benford said he moved in two-and-a-half years ago and he has been at loggerheads with the firm to fix floorboards, windows, his kitchen floor and re-do his garden.

He says fellow Castle Mead residents have these issues and more. 

“They do the bare minimum. I have battled with them ever since I moved here. If I had known about what was to come, I would have never moved in here,” he said.

“They have not put topsoil on to my garden, and many others, so it is not fit for purpose. I want compensation for this but they have declined that. I know people who have become ill because of the stress of it all and some are scared to speak out as they are going through battles such as I have had.”

Emma Whyte, of Mascroft Road, said: “We’ve nagged them for two years. Fitted bulbs blow after a week. I’ve had problems with nails, rivets and painting. It is a joke.”

Simon Helps, of Castle Hedingham, added: "I have had plumbing issues with them that have gone on for ages. I am emailing high up the team but I still get no reply. It seems they have ignore mode. Hopefully this negative press will improve things."

A spokesman for Persimmon said: “The Castle Mead development is delivering more than 650 homes for local people, the majority of whom are happily settled into their properties.

“However, it can only be a matter of deep regret to us if any customer is dissatisfied with their new home.

“We are aware of some concerns at Castle Mead and we are actively engaged with these homeowners to ensure that the appropriate action is being undertaken as quickly as possible.”