PLANS for a development of 70 new homes in Highworth have been submitted to Swindon Borough Council.

The proposal from David Hares Landscape Architecture in Chichester seeks permission to build 70 homes on land to the east of Swindon Road and south of Redlands Close.

If approved, a new access road for the estate will be created off the A361 south of the town, with the 30mph zone extended beyond the mini roundabout to allow safe access to the development, which will be home to a range of one bed flats, maisonettes, and executive homes, with space for 102 car parking spaces.

The applicant states that the land has been allocated for residential use within the Highworth Neighbourhood Plan, which was recently adopted by the town following a referendum. “This application seeks to confirm the principle of residential development on this site, in accordance with the Neighbourhood Plan,” the application says.

“The application is a consequence of various formal and public consultation exercises linked to the Neighbourhood Plan and has evolved with input from the town council, the local community and the general public.

“The applicant’s family have lived in the town for over 100 years, and have owned and farmed the application site for some 70 of those years. Through the vision work undertaken by the Highworth Community Partnership Group and the town council it was accepted that Highworth as a town needs to grow in order to maintain its vitality and unique character.

“The community identified a need for new housing to meet the local demand for residential accommodation in the town. New housing will also help support local services, businesses and the schools.

“The site is situated within walking and cycling distance of the High Street, which provides a range of facilities. Both the primary and secondary schools are located within close proximity. The proposed access is from Swindon road where there is a regular bus route to the town and the major employment centre of Swindon.

“The proposed development site is therefore considered to be a sustainable location.”

Full details of the application can be found on the Swindon Borough Council planning portal under reference S/OUT/17/1340.