DEVELOPERS have withdrawn plans to build up to 100 new homes in Dilton Marsh following strong objections from scores of locals.
Housebuilder Bellway Homes South West in Bristol withdrew the application before Wiltshire Council was due to decide the plans on Tuesday (February 13).
Scores of residents had objected strongly to the planning application saying it would “change the nature” of the village.
Locals have celebrated the withdrawal, with one saying: “Brilliant news. This has made my day.”
Dilton Marsh had a population of 1,958 in the 2021 Census but it is now believed to be just under 2,000.
MP Dr Andrew Murrison, Dilton Marsh Parish Council, CPRE Wiltshire and local ward councillors Francis Morland and Suzanne Wickham also objected to the scheme.
They argued it would increase the village’s population by 25-30 per cent and increase traffic on the B3099 to the busy A36 which has already seen several fatal and serious injury accidents.
They also claimed the new homes would put increase pressure on local facilities including Dilton Marsh Primary School and the health centre.
The original application was submitted by Rosconn Strategic Land and its agent Pegasus Planning Group.
They submitted plans to develop around 100 new homes on land south of Clivey, Dilton Marsh, on a 6.83-hectare site where wild deer currently feed.
The company sold its strategic land bank to Bellway Homes in October 2022.
Meanwhile, Dilton Marsh Land Value Alliances LLP wants to build up to 54 new homes on land to the north of 117 High Street having revised its original plans down from 65 new homes.
Villagers launched an online appeal with a £2,000 target to engage a planning consultant to fight the schemes.
Dilton Marsh resident Natasha Wildman said: “I would suggest that this location is wholly inappropriate for any residential development, let alone one of up to 100 dwellings.
“Together with plans for 65 new homes at High Street, Dilton Marsh, the two new developments could potentially increase the village population by 25-30 per cent and increase traffic by more than 160 vehicles.
“There is no thought given to how this development will affect the lives of current residents or impact on the local school or health centre.
“No amount of money offered by a developer can alleviate the parking issue at the village school when there is no land available to create a parking area.”
“The health centre is already under huge pressure and the B3099 is proving to be an accident blackspot."
Bellway Homes has been approached for comment.
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