A PLANNING application to build three homes on what was once a “much-loved garden” has been refused by the council.

Developers earlier this year applied to erect three four-bedroom detached houses on land behind number 44 High Street, Haydon Wick.

The proposal was met with opposition by residents and the parish council on the grounds that it would constitute “over development”.

Sandra Masters, who lives at 46 High Street, directly in front of where the new development is proposed to be, said access was a “major concern”.

She said: “The High Street is a narrow road in itself and this would be quite dangerous, especially in light of the fact that very often there are cars parked on both sides and at times the view is obscured.”

She added: “It is a real shame that there is a potential loss of a green area with an established orchard full of birds and some wildlife that was once a much-loved garden to the property – it is now only seen as infill land.”

But after careful consideration, Swindon Borough Council have refused to grant planning permission.

The council’s notice of refusal reads: “The proposal for three dwellings would lead to an over development and intensification of the site due to using an inadequate access road.

“As a result the proposal would have an adverse impact on the amenity of nearby residents by reason of the close proximity of the driveway to nearby houses and the volume of traffic likely to be using the drive.”

The report also cited concerns about “inadequate provision for turning/passing facilities within the proposed development”.

The 1,487 sq m. site forms part of a rear garden behind numbers 42, 44, 46 and 48 High Street, though it is not known who actually owns the land.

The supporting statement, prepared by Ian Sullivan Architecture Ltd on behalf of Dean Jefferies Construction Ltd, reads: “The rear garden is large and is bounded by a variety of boundary treatments and has a number of fruit trees within the site.

“An opportunity exists to layout the buildings in a fashion that will retain and reflect the character of Haydon Wick and the grain of the surrounding urban area.”

Developers said it will “assist in addressing the Borough Council’s current 5-year housing land supply shortfall”.

The proposal would be accessed via an existing highway access point from the High Street along an extended driveway to the side of number 48.

Trevor Gough, who lives at 63 High Street, voiced similar concerns to those of Ms Masters.

He said: “With the proposed three dwellings, we are looking at a minimum of six vehicles, but potentially many more trying to enter or exit using this narrow drive.

“The High Street is also used for parking for Haydon Wick School when parents come to collect their children.”

He added: “The driveway is narrow, which would mean vehicles would not be able to pass.”

The developers are yet to appeal.