CONCERNED residents crowded into Christ Church this evening to grill the developers who plan to build 62 homes on a field near Croft Road.

The controversial plans for Taylor Wimpey to construct 62 homes on Ambrose Field received outline planning permission last year despite going against the Local Plan.

Further plans to rectify issues including landscaping and the external appearance of the houses will be submitted at the end of February.

A decision on the plans for these reserve matters will be made around June, then, if approved, work will start on-site by the end of the year.

Some of the discussions got rather heated as citizens vented their frustrations at Taylor Wimpey staff.

Anthea Hilson has lived in Old Town since 1988.

She said: "They have turned up and made it look like they're consulting us but in reality, no-one listened to a word we've said in the first instance and it's too late now.

"The houses are not appropriate, the field is too wet, I think this stinks."

Steve Neal, senior planning manager of Taylor Wimpey, said: "It's been very well attended and we are very grateful to people for coming along and giving up their time.

"A lot of people are commenting on the principle of the development and still have reservations against the scheme but we are hoping to be able to address concerns like draining and highways access."

Steve James of Croft Road said: "It's a shame that park land is going, there's not much of it left in Old Town.

"New houses are being built everywhere and I know that the country needs new houses but I can't believe the amount, I don't understand."

Nadine Watts, Labour councillor for Old Town, said: "It's a shame they didn't do this before the outline plans went in.

"It's hard to get over the mindset that we can only look forward now.

"A lot of residents find it sad that the Local Plan counts for nothing, it's quite difficult to take on board but all we can do is make the best of the situation."

Nick Burns-Howell of South Swindon Parish Council said: "We are all a bit disappointed by the decision to grant permission, but what's important now is for the community to have a real say in what this development will look like.

"I take some reassurance that some of the issues, like flooding and traffic access, are being considered."

"We encourage developers to get on and build large developments like the 2,750 homes in Wichelstowe rather than focus on smaller sites like this."

As part of the development, £30,000 will be spent on new and existing children's play facilities.

The public consultation will last until February 8.

The plans can be viewed and comments can be submitted by visiting taylorwimpey.com/croftroad