New housing plans in Devizes spark fears of increased traffic and strain on local services.
The new plan includes two developments: one for 175 houses, the other for 40. Another site nearby already got approval for 200 houses, a development that had previously faced objections from the public.
Residents and town council members are worried that Windsor Drive and London Road could get congested. Councillor Richard Oliver shares these concerns. Oliver said London Road already has a new development planned.
Roads may need improvements because junctions are close, and he worries about bottlenecks from high traffic volume. Access to these new houses also raises questions. Oliver supports development if infrastructure is adequate and stresses that housing should balance with improvements.
He notes that more jobs and doctors need more houses and people, but he stresses the need for infrastructure first, emphasizing that plans must make sense. Social media shows worry about traffic and services.
Resident Paul Putnam estimates 400 more cars during rush hour, which would join traffic from Coate Bridge’s 300 cars. This would severely impact London Road. Sue Kerrawn called the plan “crazy,” noting a lack of doctors and dentists currently.
She mentions traffic problems already exist on London Road and questions if more houses are truly needed in town. Pegasus Group is running the consultation and says feedback will influence the plans.
Their spokesperson wants community input before submitting applications to Wiltshire Council. The website has draft proposals for review. The spokesperson added they are trying fulfill housing shortages and that the plan will also provide affordable housing to help meet Wiltshire Council’s requirements. Pegasus Group did not offer further comment.