Plans for new Wiltshire homes move closer

Proposals for hundreds of new homes in Wiltshire have moved a step closer after gaining government backing.

Housing Minister Grant Shapps signed off the £77m plans, made through the Private Finance Initiative, which would see about 350 affordable homes built.

Wiltshire Council will now produce a final business case to go to the government for approval.

If approved, the first 240 homes would be built in Trowbridge, Warminster, Westbury, Melksham and Hilperton.

The work would be undertaken by Sarsen Housing Association, based in Devizes, along with Persimmon Homes and Westbury Partnerships.

Plans for another 100 homes to be built in the second phase of the scheme would also progress, the council spokesman said.