A major housing scheme in Ashton Park, south-east of Trowbridge, has received outline planning approval from Wiltshire Council, paving the way for up to 2,500 new homes, including a significant proportion of affordable housing.
The development, covering 177 hectares, is a joint project between Persimmon Homes Wessex and Barratt Redrow Bristol, who finalised the partnership in November of last year. With outline consent now secured, the scheme is set to move ahead following the finalisation of a Section 106 agreement expected within five months.
Under this agreement, 675 homes—just over 25% of the total—will be designated as affordable housing. These homes will be delivered in stages and made available through local housing associations. While the council’s policy typically calls for 30% affordable provision, it accepted a reduced figure due to the project’s financial viability constraints.
In addition to the on-site affordable housing, the developers will contribute £25 million to the local area under planning obligations. This includes £5.4 million specifically allocated for affordable housing delivery elsewhere in the county, a contribution made possible by a reduction in previously allocated funds for education infrastructure.
Despite falling short of the full 30% affordable housing benchmark, the council believes these measures will help alleviate the pressure on its housing system. Wiltshire currently has around 4,000 households on its social housing waiting list, with demand for affordable homes growing rapidly—registrations have more than tripled over the last five years.
A Community-Focused Development
The Ashton Park project is designed as more than just a housing estate. Plans include:
- Two new primary schools and one secondary school
- Two local centres with retail, community, and leisure space
- New parks, green spaces, and sports pitches
- A new relief road to improve local traffic flow
- Improved public transport and pedestrian/cycle connectivity
- Over £14 million for education, £3.4 million for healthcare, and support for a full-time wildlife warden
These features are part of a broader vision to support long-term, balanced growth in Trowbridge and the surrounding area.
Local Leaders Welcome the Decision
Adrian Foster, Wiltshire Council’s cabinet member for strategic planning, development management, and housing, called the approval “a significant step forward” for both Trowbridge and the county as a whole.
“This site plays a central role in Wiltshire’s Core Strategy, and although its progress was delayed by legal complexities, we’re pleased to see it finally moving forward,” he said. “Ashton Park will bring vital new homes, schools, and infrastructure, while addressing environmental considerations. It’s a well-rounded plan that aligns with our vision for sustainable growth.”
Developer Commitments to Affordable Homes
Both Persimmon and Barratt Redrow have committed to addressing the region’s housing challenges with a focus on long-term community value.
Seb Spiller, Managing Director of Persimmon Homes Wessex, said the approval reflects strong collaboration with the council and a shared vision for delivering homes people need.
“Our plans will provide high-quality housing in an area where demand is growing, giving local residents the opportunity to stay close to their roots,” he said. “This development also brings substantial investment into local infrastructure and services.”
Rob Hart, Managing Director at Barratt Redrow Bristol, echoed this sentiment:
“Securing the planning resolution is a crucial step in addressing the housing needs of the South West. We’re proud to play a role in delivering not only homes but also the supporting infrastructure that creates lasting communities.”
Affordable Housing Still Under Pressure
Despite the commitments made by developers, housing pressure remains high across England and Wales. A recent survey estimated that more than 17,000 affordable homes promised through Section 106 agreements have not yet been delivered, and less than 10% have progressed through the government’s clearing house service intended to speed up these sales.
Persimmon recently announced plans to increase its delivery of affordable homes by 20% this year, signalling continued focus on tackling the national shortfall.
Looking Ahead
The Ashton Park scheme represents one of the largest housing approvals in the region in recent years. By combining market-rate homes, affordable housing, and key infrastructure, the project aims to support not only local families but also broader economic and social development in Wiltshire.
Construction is expected to begin once the Section 106 agreement is officially signed, with delivery phased over several years to meet housing needs sustainably.
Source: www.insidehousing.co.uk
