Plans for a major mixed-use development on a 74.5-hectare site near Junction 15 of the M4 go before Swindon Borough Council’s planning committee this evening.
Planning officers are recommending committee members approve the scheme submitted by Swindon Gateway Partnership – a consortium of housebuilders Persimmon and Redrow.
The high-profile site – bordered by the M4, the A419, Marlborough Road and the Great Western Hospital and Coate Country Park – was identified by the University of Bath six years ago for its Swindon Campus. But that scheme, which also included 1,800 homes and 77,000 sq metres of employment land, was rejected by the Secretary of State following an appeal to a planning inspector.
The revised scheme includes 890 homes and a 11.98 hectare business park as well as a primary school, small district shopping centre and a 5.5-hectare site earmarked for expansion of the hospital.
In a report to this evening’s committee, planning officers say the development could meet part of Swindon’s growing need for new employment land and new homes.
Chiseldon, Wanborough, Liddington and Wroughton parish councils object to the development along with the Environment Agency and South Swindon MP Robert Buckland. There has also been a largescale campaign by members of the public to protect Coate Country Park.
Chiseldon, Wanborough, Liddington and Wroughton parish councils object to the development along with the Environment Agency and South Swindon MP Robert Buckland. There has also been a largescale campaign by members of the public to protect Coate Country Park.
