AN application to build 62 new homes in Old Town has been withdrawn.

Developer Taylor Wimpey had applied for permission for the development, in Croft Road, near Ambrose Road.

The proposals were met with strong opposition by residents, with many suggesting they did not adhere to Swindon Borough Council planning policy.

In particular, they said it went against housing boundary policy agreed after the Wichelstowe estate received planning permission.

Taylor Wimpey waited for the planning inspector’s report on the council’s Local Plan before withdrawing the bid.

Coun Nadine Watts, (Lab, Old Town), said: “This is a great result for Old Town residents and the public interest has prevailed in this case.

“I’m sure local residents will be pleased and relieved. We are glad that we have finally got this result and this area of land will remain as a rural buffer.

“It took a longer time than usual for this outcome to be reached as Taylor Wimpey were waiting to see whether there were going to be any significant changes to the council’s local plan and five-year housing land supply recommended by the planning inspector.

“During this time, while I thought there was a strong chance the council would reject this application, there was a concern that Taylor Wimpey would have a better chance of getting this application granted by the planning inspector through the planning appeals system.

“Now this application has been withdrawn that option is no longer available to them.”

Robert Buckland, South Swindon MP, also campaigned against Taylor Wimpey’s submission.

He said: “This submission was made at a time when the local plan was unclear and I think the applicants have done well to withdraw it as it avoids an inappropriate development being built.

“This development would have ruined a green area.”