MORE than 220 new homes due to be built in Melksham could support hundreds of jobs during the construction, one of the developers has claimed.

David Wilson Homes, part of Barratt Developments PLC, plans to build a new community of 221 homes.

As well as creating much-needed new homes, the development on land east of Spa Road will support 663 local jobs during the construction phases.

Cllr Adrienne Westbrook, chairman of Melksham Town Council’s planning committee, welcomed the news that hundreds of new jobs will be created but she voiced concerns about the possibility of infrastructure improvements lagging behind.

She said: “Once again, this is another large housing development that is outside the town centre.

“Residents of Melksham will, quite rightly, be concerned about the infrastructure development needed, particularly in relation to roads, education and medical facilities.”

The Bristol-based housebuilder is jointly developing the site with Bloor Homes and hopes to start work this summer.

Up to 450 new homes will be built on the land after planning permission was gained last year. As work gets underway, roles on the construction project will include tradespeople, subcontractors and sales advisers.

Ian Menham, managing director at David Wilson Homes, said: “The new development will not only support those looking to purchase a home, but the local economy as jobs are supported throughout the development.”

The development will feature a range of two, three and four-bedroom properties. David Wilson Homes is expected to unveil the name of its new development shortly.

Melksham is proving an increasingly sought-after location as it is within easy commuting distance of Bath, Chippenham and Devizes.

An outline application was first submitted by Hallam Land Management and Bloor Homes in July 2014 and was approved with conditions in February 2016.

Their application included associated access and engineering operations and land for the extension of local medical facilities or a community facility.

It also included an extension to the Eastern Relief Road from Thyme Road to The Spa and Snowberry Lane.