Revised plans to build 650 houses on land at Rawlings Farm, Chippenham has been approved by Wiltshire Council.

The outline application by KBC Developments LLP would see up to 650 houses, five-hectares of employment-generating land, a primary school and 10-hectare country park developed on the site.

Previously approved in 2016, the new proposals were deemed to be substantially revised enough to return to Strategic Planning for further approval – these revisions included reducing the number of houses from 700.

The site is part of the Chippenham Site Allocation Plan and it was recommended to approve the revised plans to alleviate the tilted balance caused by Wiltshire’s lack of a five-year land supply.

Speaking in objection, Chippenham Cllr Nick Murry noted that ‘at least five documents’ were posted by the applicant – including the building height plan – in August, two months after the final consultation period.

Cllr Howard Greenman, who called in the application said that while concerns still lingered that his position has changed and he would show support for the proposal.

Cllr Tony Trotman asked if the committee was to agree with the recommendations that the ‘timeline of implementation’ could be shortened to two years or earlier.

“I just thought with the five-year land supply in jeopardy right the way through the county that this is one that ought to be brought forward rather quicker,” he said.

Replying to Cllr Trotman, development management team leader, Lee Burman said while the council can shorten the guidance that a short timeframe ‘probably’ would not be achievable.

In public participation, Helen Stuckey, representing the residents of Tytherton Lucas, said that they did object to the plans but objected to aspects including the link road to the river Avon and the heights of the commercial premises.

Adrian Temple Brown added his objections over carbon dioxide which would be released as a result of the proposals.

Concerns were also raised by Chippenham Town Council over flood risks, public transport, and access to the busy A4.

A motion to approve the application was put forward by committee chair, Cllr Fleur de Rhé-Philipe and seconded by Cllr Christopher Newbury. Committee members voted with seven in favour of the application and four against.