PLANS to build more than 30 homes on land in Redhouse set aside for commercial use have been met with mixed reactions.

A planning application has been submitted to Swindon Council for permission to build 33 houses and a community building at The Village Centre.

Residents in the area originally expressed concerns that the proposal was for the land earmarked for a family pub.

However, councillors have moved to reassure them that this is not the case.

But if the application is approved, it will mean building on land that was intended for commercial use.

However, this is now deemed not to be commercially viable.

Coun Peter Heaton-Jones, (Con, St Andrews) said: “My understanding is that this application from Crest is for the new Redhouse Community Centre, plus some extra houses on land previously earmarked for commercial units which are now not commercially viable.

“There is also to be a little ‘infilling’ on a small pocket of land.

“It is not on the land intended for the pub and family restaurant.

“Ward councillors are making sure that this land is protected, and we’re still working on the developers to make sure they deliver on their promise for the pub.

“We’re keeping a very close eye on this.”

Earlier this year, the Adver revealed that residents were still fighting for the pub they were promised but Crest was holding out for a higher bid than Arkells had been offering.

Resident Steve Hall said: “Commercial units may not be viable currently given the climate, but who is to say they won’t be in a couple of years?

“And, given that as far as I am aware, Wichelstowe isn’t exactly a sell-out, is there really that much more demand for housing?

“It just seems odd to me that there is a predicted need for so much more housing in Swindon, yet almost nothing else.

All comments on the plans must be received in writing by July 16.

For further information call Ian Halsall on 01793 466156.