RESIDENTS have reacted with fury after trees and flowers were destroyed by developers at a controversial site in West Swindon.

Last year, an application by Persimmon Homes to build houses on land off Hook Street was successful, despite much local opposition. As part of the permission, the developers were allowed to construct a small footpath through Greendown Copse, near Jewel Close.

However, the Lydiard Fields Action Group say the company has exceeded what it was allowed to do and trampled over bluebells planted by the community.

A spokesman for the group, which aims to protect the local environment, said: “Building work has been carried out without regard for the wellbeing of either the local community or the protected areas near this sensitive and controversial site. The damage to Greendown Copse has been particularly distressing.

“This whole area is covered by a tree protection order and is regularly maintained by the local community for the benefit of everyone.

“The recent works have involved the destruction of large areas of hedgerow and areas only recently planted with native bluebells, wild primroses and woodland strawberries.”

Ward councillor Tim Swinyard (Con, Lydiard and Freshbrook), who grew up in the area, says he is also frustrated at the damage and is attempting to deal with the problem to prevent further harm.

He said: “The work in the Greendown Copse is being looked into so we can see what has been removed and what was permitted, as it would appear that hedgerow has been removed outside of the permission given.

“It is very disappointing that the bluebells which the Lydiard Fields Action Group planted have been damaged as they had taken their time to try and improve the area.

“We need to encourage residents to take pride in their area and when they see their hard work ruined, you can understand their frustration.

“It’s an area I’ve known all of my life – I even had a tree house in the Greendown Copse when I was younger – so it’s extremely concerning to see what has happened.

“I’ve been in regular communication with council officers and Robert Buckland MP about all of the issues caused by the development and they have been helping me deal with them and answer questions residents have had.

“The planning department also took the time to meet residents and discuss their concerns, but unfortunately communication from the developer and contractors has just not been there.”

Steve Roche, managing director for Persimmon Homes Wessex, said: “We are currently undertaking work at our Hook Street development and all are in accordance with the required approvals.”