'Put planning decisions on hold' pleads Chippenham MP until housing allocations are sorted

In a letter to Wiltshire Council, Miss Donelan, whose constituency covers Hilperton and Paxcroft, echoed concerns already raised by more than 300 letters of representation regarding the plans to build 210 houses on the land at Elizabeth Way.

Hilperton Parish Council and Trowbridge Town Council have openly opposed the development which some believe could destroy the identity of the area.

In her letter, Miss Donelan said: “This important local site is not allocated for housing within the Wiltshire Core Strategy and is a very important green space for the communities around it.

“There are very well documented issues with the Chippenham Town Plan which is having a knock-on effect on other developments in the area, including in Hilperton.

“I do not believe that this, or any other, significant planning applications within the north and west housing market area should be granted until an outcome to the Chippenham Town Plan situation is known.”

Developers Framptons submitted the outline planning application in February and held a public exhibition so people could look at plans to build on land to the south of Middle Lane, on the Wyke Road side of Elizabeth Way.

But despite this, residents’ main concerns regarding the proposal – which comes only a few months after the road opened – include access onto the new road and potential flooding.

They have since gathered 1,500 signatures on a petition opposing the development.

Miss Donelan added: “Planners should always consider what is in the best interests of communities as a whole. We should not want villages to lose their identity as they are forced to merge with neighbouring towns.

“The Hilperton Gap is an important green space for local residents and I do not believe that this application is either in the best interest of Hilperton village or the surrounding areas.”

Wiltshire Council has until May 6 to make a decision.