CONCERNS are mounting over a major potential development in north Swindon which could see 2,000 new homes built.

Residents in Oakhurst have spoken out about their fears a housing development at Tadpole Lane could overload the current road infrastructure, including Oakhurst Way.

There is also concern that Lady Lane, which was shut a couple of years ago after a local campaign, may be reopened to alleviate any congestion.

The land, owned by developer Crest Nicholson, is due to be developed as the final part of the staged housebuilding program in north Swindon and is set to be included in the new Swindon Local Plan.

Previous negotiations between the developer and Swindon North MP Justin Tomlinson, who was Abbey Meads councillor at the time, saw the original proposal for between 2,500 and 3,000 homes reduced to between 1,500 and 2,000.

But residents are still concerned the increase in traffic, which could be up to 4,000 vehicles, will lead to Oakhurst Way becoming a rat run, even though Crest Nicholson has not submitted a formal application.

Oakhurst resident and former Moredon councillor Stephanie Exell said there were limited routes for the new traffic to use and the development would have a huge impact on the area.

“Oakhurst Way is already a rat run. They have got to try and find a way of getting that traffic away from Tadpole Farm without inconveniencing people and turning Oakhurst, Redhouse and Blunsdon into a car park,” the former planning committee member said.

“The claim about Lady Lane came from a conversation I had with a Swindon Council planner who I won’t name. They said they have got a real problem with the development because wherever they go there are only a certain number of roads.

“I don’t want anybody to be inconvenienced by this and although it’s only at the pre-application stage now is the only time to get things changed.”

Mr Tomlinson said although no firm plans had been presented he was expecting an outline application in the next few months.

He said: “Tadpole Farm is the final part of the development of north Swindon and the developers already own the land so we are waiting for the plans to be brought forward.

“I am totally opposed to the reopening of Lady Lane – it was right and proper that road was taken off. We will continue to push the developers to divert the new traffic away from existing roads, such as directly linking with the A419.”

Jeff Hill, 68, of Lampeter Road, Oakhurst, said he felt drivers would take the shortest route available.

“I don’t think people will use the A419 to get into Swindon because they are going to use the shortest way, which will more than likely be Oakhurst Way or an alternative.”

A council spokesman said: “If plans are submitted we would require a full transport assessment to be handed in with the planning application.”