Homes plan for former garage site (From Wiltshire Times)

Homes plan for former garage site

5:23pm Monday 24th December 2007 in Melksham By Craig Evry

A FORMER garage and car sales lot in Melksham could become housing if plans are approved by district councillors.

Officers at West Wiltshire District Council have recommended the planning committee approve plans for the CN Vines site off Sandridge Road in Melksham.

The application, submitted by Tony Hemmings, of Outmarsh in Semington, is for 16 homes - consisting of 14 apartments and two flats - along with roads and services.

Access for cars would be off Sandridge Road, while a pedestrian link to Snarlton Lane is included.

But Melksham Town Council, Melksham Without Parish Council and 28 residents have raised objections. Concerns include the safety of pedestrians using Snarlton Lane, the piecemeal approach to the development of the land, the height and density of buildings, a lack of health facilities in the town and a lack of a play area for children.

Residents also claimed the development would create a slum and result in an increase of petty crime. The cork-shaped piece of land is next to where the East of Melksham development will be built which will include 750 homes and a school.

Councillors will debate the plan at a meeting on Thursday January 3.