A housing development site in Trowbridge that has caused controversy among locals is now open for public viewing.

The Weavers Meadow site, off Elizabeth Way in Hilperton, is bringing 151 new homes to Wiltshire, including 45 low-cost rent and shared ownership houses.

But Bellway South West developers have not had a smooth ride.

In May 2023, locals from the Hilperton area protested as ancient hedgerows were ripped out to prepare for the new housing development.

“They are just ripping them apart. They should not be doing it at this time of the year when the birds are nesting,” said resident Christine O’Doherty whose home backs onto the development.

A spokesperson for the housing developer at the time said: “The works to the hedgerow on the site off Elizabeth Way were all carried out under a watching brief by our licenced ecologist and approved by Wiltshire council.”

Six months later and Bellway’s new housing cabin is complete to take on viewings.

Wiltshire Times: The development site is now open to visitors.The development site is now open to visitors. (Image: Trevor Porter)

“There has been a great deal of interest in the homes we are building at Weavers Meadow and this was a highly-anticipated launch,” said Christel Hawkins, sales manager for Bellway South West.

“The day was a resounding success and our sales team was kept busy by customers keen to learn more about the new properties.

“Now that we have opened a dedicated sales cabin at the development, potential purchasers can call to set an appointment with our sales staff and pop along to the site to check out its location and to get a feel for how the development will sit in the local area.”

The site will include 106 two, three and four-bedroom homes for private sale, as well as 45 properties available specifically for local people wanting low-cost rent and shared ownership.

The development is expected to be particularly popular with parents, due to its proximity to local schools and children’s play areas.

“Parents will also appreciate that there are 10 primary schools within a two-and-a-half-mile radius and two secondary schools within easy reach as well,” added Christel.

“Trowbridge Sports Centre is less than ten minutes away by car, while it’s a half-hour walk to the centre of town with its selection of independent shops, restaurants and bars.”