MORE than 360 new homes are likely to be built in the Bowerhill and Berryfield areas of Melksham.

Housebuilder Taylor Wimpey and its agent Pegasus Group of Cirencester have submitted plans for 213 new homes on land south of Western Way at Bowerhill.

The Bristol-based company’s application provides for a primary school with early years nursery and open space.

Taylor Wimpey originally wanted to build 235 new homes on the site but has scaled back its proposed development.

Locals have until July 6 to comment and Wiltshire Council has already received one objection to the scheme.

Mrs Anne Gregory, of Mallory Place, Bowerhill, says plans to build two-storey homes will impact on her privacy.

“The plan to now build two-storey dwellings adjacent to our properties will severely impact our privacy as our gardens and rear-facing windows will be directly overlooked by the proposed properties.”

Mrs Gregory said the development would also cause more congestion on Bath Road and increase the pressure on local GP surgeries.

“I am opposed to the development as a whole due to the effect on local traffic and healthcare provision,” she added.

Meanwhile, Wiltshire Council has just approved plans for 150 new homes on land east of Semington Road at Berryfield.

Bristol-based housebuilder Bellway Homes’ scheme was approved with conditions.

As part of the planning agreement, Bellway will invest more than £1.2m in local infrastructure, including £500,000 to build a new village hall and £652,000 to expand secondary school facilities.

It will also include a local equipped play area, parking and landscaping.