Our Wiltshire Asset Maximisation project will not go ahead

Our proposals to build new homes at sites in Wiltshire will not move forward.

Over the Summer, we outlined proposals to demolish small pockets of our existing homes and replace them with new affordable homes. This project was known internally as the Wiltshire Asset Maximisation project.

However, after a detailed assessment it is clear the project is no longer financially viable.

The sites earmarked for redevelopment were:

• Dixon Way, in Calne
• Oate Hill, in Chippenham
• The Rosary, in Royal Wootton Bassett

• Brooklands, in Brinkworth.

Mark Patchitt, our Director of Development, said: “We have been clear during our consultation that these proposals were dependent on planning permission, grant funding and internal approvals.

“To inform this process we have carried out surveys and consultations with customers and the wider community which have shaped the plans and our designs. We have now had the opportunity to assess the updated plans taking into consideration the feedback from customers, communities and partners and fully cost the proposed schemes.

“As a not-for-profit social housing provider, before we commit to investments, we must ensure they are viable and responsible. After carefully reviewing the proposals, considering the feedback and information we have gathered over the last few months, it has become clear the plans are not financially viable within our current funding constraints. As a result, we will not be progressing with them.

“We appreciate this news may be disappointing, and we are sorry that we have not been able to move the plans forward as we would have liked. All affected customers have been informed and we have also informed our local authority partners.

“We remain committed to investing in our homes in Wiltshire and exploring future development opportunities where these are financially viable.

“I would like to thank colleagues for their work on the Wiltshire Asset Maximisation project to date.”