Plans to build 180 homes and a new medical centre in Calne are expected to be formally submitted this summer.
Developer CG Fry and Son Ltd, say they anticipate lodging the planning application in July 2025 for the land at Wenhill, accessible from the A3102 Silver Street.
The project envisions the construction of approximately 180 homes, with 30% designated as affordable housing to address local needs.
Crucially, the application will also include plans for a new doctors’ surgery. However, the realisation of the medical centre hinges on securing funding from the NHS Integrated Care Board and will remain outside the direct control of the developer.
Developers hope that securing planning permission for the surgery will act as an enabling first step in the funding process.
In a recent update to Calne Town Council, CG Fry and Son addressed several potential issues raised during the pre-application consultation - these included concerns regarding traffic management, particularly the need for safe crossings and a reduced speed limit on Silver Street.
The council also underlined the importance of ensuring the successful delivery of the medical centre in conjunction with the new housing and the provision of ample green space within the development.
When the proposal was first issued one resident, Deidre Airey, launched a petition against the development.
So far the petition has gathered over 1200 signatures. Deidre comments: "This area, unspoilt as of yet, serves as a fundamental pathway for wildlife accessing the river and surrounding areas. Protected wildlife are in this area, otters have been identified in the river and hedgehogs are all around this natural haven. The inevitable noise and pollution that comes with such vast construction projects would be detrimental to local wildlife, which is already suffering the consequences of ongoing urban sprawl.
"Equally pressing is the issue of traffic and air pollution. Silver Street, alongside the entire town centre, already navigates its way through strenuous traffic during peak hours. Our community, our roads, and our air quality are at risk of being compromised by the inevitable influx of additional vehicles.
"This proposed construction project will drastically alter the town’s character, changing not just our beloved town but also our treasured countryside. The views of the local people must be considered before the green light is given to such a massive development."
In their update to Calne Town Council, CG Fry and Son have said they anticipte that the application will be submitted during July 2025, subject to the approval of the respective landowners.
Adding: “Following registration of the application, representatives of CGF and their consultant team will be available to attend a town council meeting."
The petition can be found here.
Photo credit: Deidre Airey
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