A DISUSED barn and house in Hampton which were called ‘ugly’ by councillors will be demolished to make way for two modern homes.

The dwelling and barn reside on land at Someset on Hampton Lane, near Highworth.

The plans for their demolition received three letters of support and 10 objections from residents.

The plans were discussed at a Swindon Borough Council planning meeting.

Coun Vera Tomlinson certainly didn’t mince her words.

She said: “We have a sad old house which is going to be replaced by an attractive new house.

“There’s a tatty old tin barn that’s no use to anyone.

“The only good thing about it is the medieval wall, which is being retained - the rest will become a nice new building.”

Coun Alan Bishop said: “I think the houses will enhance the village because, instead of a rubbish barn and sickly dwelling, we’d have two nice houses.

“The applicants have jumped through several hoops for this.”

Coun Steve Weisinger agreed: “Originally, the application was for four homes but they resubmitted and left the paddock untouched.

“The house there now is a poorly-constructed ‘60s home with no historic value.”

A spokesperson for the residents and neighbours who opposed the plans spoke at the meeting.

He said: “The houses will dominate the conservation area and redeveloping the barn will destroy the agricultural nature and character of the conservation site.”

The plans were accepted with seven votes for and five (all Labour councillors) against.