Neighbours concerned about new attempt to replace bungalow

The proposal, submitted by Squires Planning on behalf of Proudmill Homes Ltd, concerns land at 27 Church Walk South, Swindon, and follows the rejection of two previous redevelopment proposals for the site.

A plan for five two-bedroom bungalows was turned down by the council in October 2024 and later dismissed at appeal in September 2025.

A later proposal for four bungalows was also refused in August 2025.

The previous decisions were based on concerns that the plans were too cramped, overdeveloped the plot, failed to respect the existing building line, and would negatively affect the street's character.

The proposals also lacked adequate information on protected species, biodiversity net gain, and mitigation for the nearby North Meadows Special Area of Conservation.

The new plan aims to address these issues by replacing the bungalow with four two-storey detached homes, each six metres wide and set within its own plot.

The houses are designed with front and rear gardens, hipped pitched roofs, brick finishes, and front bay features intended to complement the character of Church Walk South.

Each home would also have two off-street parking spaces, separately accessed from Church Walk South via dropped kerbs.

The proposal includes rear gardens of at least 28 metres in depth, with space allocated for bins and bicycles.

The planning statement argues that the layout is more in line with the varying building line along the road.

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The site is roughly 100 metres north-west of the Grade II-listed Church of St Mary.

The planning statement suggests that existing trees, landscaping, and surrounding housing mean the development would not affect the church’s setting.

The proposal includes enhancements such as bird and bat boxes and hedgehog-access gaps in fences.

The planning statement anticipates a mitigation contribution of £356.21 per net additional dwelling, equating to £1,068.63 before council administration charges.

Former Rodbourne Cheney Residents’ Association chair Richard Kimber asked residents for their opinions on social media.

He said: “Should this lovely bungalow be pulled down and four houses be built in its place?

"It will mean more on street parking, 100 yards from a care home and turning circle. Could be up to 16 more cars adding to a narrow street full of vehicles, including sometimes three Thames Water vans.

"It's appreciated that there is a need for more housing but not at the detrimental living of its neighbours.

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"This property could easily fit three bungalows onto it, but not four houses.”

Those who replied were against the proposal for traffic reasons, and argued that the bungalow should be redecorated and sold rather than demolished.

Some have written formal objections to the planning application.

One neighbour said: “I have enjoyed the peace, quiet and regular wildlife entering my garden under the previous occupier and gentleman who built the bungalow.

"The historical value of this land for all surrounding properties is immense and the land is part of the original apple orchard spanning to the church."

Their reasons for objecting included fears for highway safety and traffic congestion, as well as reduced and limited access for emergency services and parking.

The resident also argued that only one property should replace what is already there.

She added: "Myself and neighbouring properties will not tolerate living in a building site while work goes on for months and even years.

"I am not alone in my objections but have the community agreement of home owners in Cheney Manor Road, Church Walk South and other surrounding area that will be negatively affected by the proposals.”