An appeal has been launched over Wiltshire Council’s refusal to grant planning permission for 50 houses in Melksham.

Developer, Terra Strategic, submitted outline plans to build 50 houses on land west of Semington Road.

In the plans, it was proposed that Terra would offer one to four-bedroom homes for the market, shared ownership and affordable rent.

In turning down the bid, planning officers said that the proposed development was outside of the build limit in its core strategy.

“The proposal conflicts with the Council's plan-led approach to the delivery of new housing sites outside of the identified limits of development,” they said.

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“The proposal would create a large block of housing isolated from other development by surrounding fields. It would result in a significant closing of the gap between Melksham and Berryfield which have separate identities that need to be maintained.

"The urbanising effect on this area of open countryside and the rural footpaths/roads nearby would have an adverse impact on the character and appearance of the area.”

Officers added that the plans did not deliver the necessary infrastructure needed to lessen its impact on the area.

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No date or time has been given for the appeal currently.

Those interested in commenting on the appeal must contact the inspectorate by Tuesday, December 14, 2021.