AN APPLICATION to build a learning disability unit in North Swindon has been withdrawn, leaving the future of the land up in the air.

Last year, PM Asset Management put in an application to build the 12-bedroomed centre, along with a number of shops, on the open space in Redhouse, directly opposite the Tesco store.

However, it has now withdrawn the application without explanation. It means the future of the land, owned by housing developer Crest Nicholson, is unclear.

No one from PM Asset Manage-ment was available to comment yesterday to explain reasons but several objections to the plan had been given to the council.

James Ellis, of Vaughn Williams Way, said: “I would like to raise concerns regarding the proposed access to the rear car park for this development as this will significantly increase the level of traffic flowing through Ismabard Way and Vaughan Williams Way.

“Currently Isambard Way in front of the main school entrance is being used by school staff and contractors for on street parking thereby reducing the road to a single lane of traffic in the majority of places. “This area becomes especially congested when parents are picking up children from school.”

When planning permission was granted for the housing in the area the land was set aside for a pub. However, despite repeated attempts by Arkell’s to buy the land to build a pub, Crest said the bids were not high enough.

The local brewer wanted to move away from the traditional pub and open up a bistro. But Crest has now said because no pub company came in with a suitable bid it will look for other uses for the land.

North Swindon MP Justin Tomlinson said: “When Arkell’s tried to purchase the land they wanted to open a bistro with a focus on coffee and food rather than a traditional drinking pub, which is something I feel many local residents would welcome. “Crest rejected their offer, so stalemate still remains.

“We would argue that Crest are now being unrealistic in their demands. “I will continue to work with Arkell’s and we will oppose to any proposal which sees a change of use to the land.”

No one from Crest Nicholson was available to comment yesterday.