People concerned about proposals by Taylor Wimpey to build houses close to Lydiard Park have their chance to express their views at a public meeting on Wednesday 2 September, 6pm, at Lydiard Millicent Primary School SN5 3LR.
Robert Buckland, MP for South Swindon, and North Wiltshire MP James Gray MP plan to attend the meeting.
Organiser Tim Swinyard, Swindon councillor for Lydiard and Freshbrook said: “Local councillors from Swindon and Wiltshire have tried to work with Taylor Wimpey to ensure the view from the park is not ruined by a new housing estate, but to no avail. They are determined to push forward with a planning application to Wiltshire Council in the Autumn.
“I hope people who live on both sides of the boundary between Swindon and north Wiltshire will come together to discuss how to prevent this application being successful, and Swindon further intruding beyond its present boundary.”
"We treasure Lydiard Park as an important part of our heritage and our greatest treasure, so we are united in our absolute opposition to housing so close to the House and Park, indeed in full view of St Mary’s Church."
Taylore Wimpey held a public consultation meeting in November 2014 to show off their plans for land in their ownership for well over 20 years, with a second in early June this year showing refinements to their proposals for 48 two to five bedroom houses. This includes using only 11 per cent of their land holding and giving the rest to Lydiard Tregoze Parish Council.
South Swindon MP Robert Buckland said: “It really is deeply disappointing that the developer is intent on ignoring the views of residents and the Friends of Lydiard Park. The house and park are a jewel in Swindon’s heritage, and any planning decision must recognise its rural setting.
“The government’s planning policy gives protection to communities. Both Swindon Council and Wiltshire Council have agreed local plans which do not include development next to Lydiard Park. Any application that runs contrary to a sound local plan should be rejected.”
Tim Swinyard added: "On 2 September we are meeting to coordinate our opposition to the application by Taylor Wimpey and I would encourage everyone to attend. To stop this application and defend our heritage, Swindon and Wiltshire citizens and both council's need to work together. I welcome the fact that Robert Buckland and James Gray will be in attendance to hear people's views."
Friends of Lydiard Park
Pictured top: Protest against Taylor Wimpey's proposals in December 2014, from left, Wiltshire councillor Mollie Groom, James Gray MP, Robert Buckland MP and Swindon councillors Tim Swinyard and Nick Martin. Image: Richard Wintle of Calyx
Below, looking across the Taylor Wimpey site towards St Mary's Church, Lydiard Park. Bottom, Taylor Wimpey's housing layout
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