Concerns in Melksham over Snarlton Farm development proposal
MP Brian Matthew urges development to align with local neighbourhood plan
Dr Brian Matthew, the Member of Parliament for Melksham, has spoken out against the proposed development at Snarlton Farm, citing concerns that it disregards the Melksham Neighbourhood Plan.
Dr Matthew believes that this proposal contradicts the collective views of local residents as expressed in the neighbourhood plan, which was formulated with extensive input from the community.
He argues that while the country needs more housing, developments must follow established plans to gain public support. “Melksham Neighbourhood Plan was made after extensive consultation with local people, and the plan reflects local views,” Dr Mathew said.
Impact of Government Involvement
Dr Matthew expressed worries that if the government moves forward with approval, it could pave the way for more speculative developments that bypass local input.
He highlighted the importance of local decision-making over planning matters, stating that resident input leads to higher quality developments.
“The Snarlton Farm application is unique because it was considered the day after the Melksham neighbourhood plan was adopted," Dr Matthew pointed out, indicating a concern that approval might diminish the relevance of local planning processes.
Potential Consequences of Approval
Approval of the Snarlton Farm development, according to Matthew, could lead to further speculative applications and result in land banking, where purchased land remains unused for extended periods.
He urges the Secretary of State to consider the well-considered sites within the neighbourhood plan that have already been identified as suitable for development.
Residents and local councils have made their stance clear—Snarlton Farm is not seen as an acceptable site based on the current neighbourhood plan allocations, which Matthew asserts more than meet identified housing needs.
Dr Matthew concluded with a call for the Secretary of State to acknowledge and not ignore the efforts of Melksham’s council and residents in planning development.