As previously mentioned, this inquiry is, unusually, being held in two locations. The first two days in Trowbridge and a third day in Cricklade. Typically, these appeals are heard in Chippenham so having a couple of days in Trowbridge is a bit of a trek.
The planning inspectorate is being very tight-lipped about what might be discussed on any particular day, “it is up to the inspector on the day”. There is no guidance being given out though one assumes that the Cricklade day is more for local participation. In conversation with the inspectorate, I did remark that there could be a lot of duplication, but “it is up to the inspector on the day” is all that they would say.
I imagine that the first two days are being directed at the two main parties; Wiltshire Council and the developer and that is why the hearing is being held at Trowbridge (to steer local participation towards the Cricklade day).
Let us hope that the local voice is heard. This particular appeal is really critical since if it is allowed, and the fifty houses are built at Widham, it makes a nonsense of the parish plan (and what people said about large developments like these) and of the neighbourhood plan (which is specifically to direct the future shape of the villages). Also, the developer WILL come back for another fifty. He has explicitly said that this is his ultimate intention at a parish council meeting.
I do hope that those who led the parish plan and those leading the neighbourhood plan will stand up and be counted. This is the time to say enough is enough.
It is really critical for as many as possible to be at the Cricklade day to demonstrate strength of feeling on this.
Talking points coming soon…
