A CONTROVERSIAL plan to build affordable homes in Melksham looks likely to go ahead, despite protests.

Town councillors objected to the scheme to put four homes and four bungalows at Berkshire Green.

They feared the proposal would lead to traffic chaos and lead to the loss of open space. A 51-name petition was collected by residents in Dorset Crescent and out of 23 responses to the plan, 17 were opposed to the proposal.

But planning officers at West Wiltshire District Council are recommending approval to the application when it is considered on Thursday, and the council's PFI manager claims there is a need for affordable homes in Melksham.

The Berkshire Green site is one of 17 in west Wiltshire where planning applications have been made for affordable housing.