Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
The Site
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The site is currently used for agricultural purposes, predominantly as pasture associated with Blackmore Farm.
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The site is approximately 27.41 hectares in size.
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The Joint Melksham Neighbourhood Plan 2 has been considered in relation to the development of the proposals.
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The exact layout of the proposed development would be determined by subsequent reserved matters application(s). Reserved matters applications determine the detailed aspects of a development such as design, layout, landscaping, and scale that are submitted for approval after an outline planning permission has been granted. The homes are proposed to make use of a natural colour palette to reflect the character of the surrounding villages.
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All homes would meet current regulations, with layouts designed for efficient solar panel installation. Carbon-reducing measures for the scheme include active travel routes to reduce car use, retention of existing trees, and new tree planting to provide natural shading.
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A Transport Assessment has been undertaken, which has assessed the impacts the development could have on the operation of the transport network, in terms of capacity, congestion and on highway safety. It was concluded that the impacts of the development on the local transport network are negligible.
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Yes, the proposals have considered the relationship between the proposed development and existing homes at Lopes Close. Most of these homes look out rearwards towards the site from behind an existing hedgerow or fenceline boundary. The Height Parameter Plan proposes that the homes in the development close to the existing houses should be 2 storeys or less.
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Yes, the development would create employment opportunities directly through construction, as well as through the business supply chain.
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The Cranesbill Road local centre is within walking distance of the site including a pub and convenience store, alongside a gym at Snarlton Farm. The consented adjacent site will deliver a new community building and employment uses that new residents of this site would benefit from. Melksham town centre is just over 2km from the development.
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The majority of the Site lies within Flood Zone 1, which is the lowest risk category. A small area to the south falls within Flood Zones 2 and 3, however all proposed development will be located within Flood Zone 1.
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Sustainable Urban Drainage (SUDs) features will be incorporated to capture water runoff and retain rainwater at the site’s lowest points above zones 2/3.
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We will be submitting the application in the spring.
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At this stage we are applying for outline planning permission. Subject to planning permission being granted, a subsequent reserved matters planning application would need to be prepared and consented prior to construction taking place.
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A Construction Management Plan would be agreed with the Council, subject to planning permission, which would manage matters such as construction vehicle movement and construction hours.
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Yes, in December 2025 we submitted a request for pre-application advice to Wiltshire Council and will continue to engage with local councillors and parishes throughout the consultation process.
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Yes, if planning permission is granted, the development would provide funding towards local infrastructure through agreed section 106 contributions with Wiltshire Council. This could help deliver local improvements and transport upgrades.