TOWN councillors unanimously voted against plans to build a new supermarket and hundreds of homes on the outskirts of Royal Wootton Bassett.

Leda Properties Limited and Tesco Stores Limited first showed an interest in developing the site, to the west of the Marsh Farm Hotel, on land which is in the parish of Lydiard Tregoze, in February.

But proposals to build a 2,800 square metre supermarket, 320 new homes, a community hub of up to 500 square metres and a senior living development of 33 units alongside public open spaces and landscaping has fiercely divided opinion in the town.

Residents who were opposed to the planning application filled the council chamber in the Civic Centre on Thursday night at the meeting of the council’s planning committee, which voted against the formal planning application.

The plan was submitted to Wiltshire Council last month and the town council opposed it for many reasons, including that it would damage the character of the town, was contrary to the regulations of the local plan and was unnecessary at the present time.

Among residents who have opposed the plans is James Ray, who is leading the Royal Wootton Bassett Say No To Tesco At Marsh Farm campaign.

He said: “We’re really pleased that the town council voted unanimously against the proposals.

“It’s further endorsement of the reckless nature of this planning application by Tesco and Leda Properties, and the damage it could do to Royal Wootton Bassett.

“We’d encourage everyone who agrees to make sure they lodge their objection with Wiltshire Council before the deadline of September 30.

“Every extra voice will help to block the plans.”

But other residents have approved of the plans, and the issue has even divided opinion among the town’s business community.

Hazel Newson, chairman of the town’s business association, said: “There is still very much a mix of views from local businesses, with some against and some in favour of the applications.

“We hope that as many people as possible will make their comments known on the official Wiltshire Council website before September 30.”

A spokesman from Tesco said: “The people we have spoken to have made it clear that there is not enough affordable housing in the area, and these new homes will mean that adults who are still living with their parents will be able to move into their own home in the area.

“The council’s own information shows that there is a need and a capacity for these homes and a new supermarket.

“It won’t compete against the High Street because the people who use their butcher and their greengrocers won’t change their habits just because there’s a new supermarket.

“We really support those specialised, independent shops that you find on the high street, and they attract a different kind of customer.

“It’s also going to create 150 new jobs, and I’ve had tons of applications being sent in.”

Residents have until September 30 to make their own comments on the application, which can be viewed by visiting www.wiltshire.gov.uk/planninganddevelopment.htm and searching for application number 14/08060/OUT.

Wiltshire Council will then discuss whether or not the planning application should be approved.

To find out more about the campaign against the plans visit www.facebook.com/saynotomarshfarm