The Western Area Planning Committee of Wiltshire Council met on Wednesday 8 October 2025, where members unanimously voted to refuse an application by Network Rail to extinguish a public footpath at Penley Park level crossing in Westbury. The committee also approved a retrospective application to increase the occupancy of a House in Multiple Occupation (HMO) at 24 Eastbourne Road, Trowbridge, from six to eight residents, subject to conditions.

Extinguishment of Footpath Westbury 15 (Penley Park Level Crossing)

The committee unanimously voted to refuse Network Rail's application to extinguish Footpath Westbury 15, which crosses Penley Park level crossing. The application was made on the grounds of public safety, with Network Rail citing an increase in users, including vulnerable individuals, and the risk posed by high-speed trains.

However, objectors, including Westbury Town Council and local residents, argued that the crossing is a vital link for the community, providing access to essential amenities such as the train station, health centre, and schools. They contended that the proposed alternative route, which is approximately one kilometre longer, is unsafe and unsuitable, particularly for vulnerable users. Concerns were also raised about the validity of Network Rail's safety data and the lack of progress on a promised bridge to replace the crossing.

During the debate, councillors expressed significant concerns about the adequacy of the alternative route and the impact of closing the crossing on community connectivity. Councillor Nigel White highlighted the lack of evidence demonstrating an increase in risk, while Councillor Chris Vaughan questioned the safety of the alternative route. Councillor Julie Vine suggested writing to the highways department to express disappointment at the lack of progress on the bridge. Ultimately, the committee agreed with the objectors that the extinguishment was not expedient and that the proposed alternative route was inadequate.

24 Eastbourne Road, Trowbridge: Change of Use to HMO

The committee approved an application to change the use of 24 Eastbourne Road, Trowbridge, from a six-person House in Multiple Occupation (HMO) to an eight-person HMO, with the addition of a seventh bedroom in the roof space. The decision was made subject to conditions, including the provision and maintenance of two off-road parking spaces.

The application had initially faced objections from the Highways Department on safety grounds, citing concerns about increased parking and congestion on the narrow residential street. However, these concerns were later amended following discussions with the applicant, with the Highways Department stating they would be relatively okay if the two parking spaces were conditioned to remain available.

During the debate, councillors discussed the sustainability of the site's location, its proximity to Trowbridge town centre, and the council's parking standards. Councillor Christopher Newbury expressed sympathy for refusing the application due to concerns about the street becoming predominantly HMOs, but acknowledged the applicants' assurances regarding the quality of management and the type of residents. Councillor Ernie Clark, while acknowledging the existing parking issues, felt there was insufficient evidence to refuse the application, particularly given the housing crisis and the need for affordable accommodation. The officer's recommendation to approve, subject to conditions, was ultimately supported.

25 Queens Gardens, Hilperton: Proposed Extensions

The committee unanimously approved an application for proposed two-storey side and single-storey rear extensions at 25 Queens Gardens, Hilperton. The applicant, who is a local resident and runs a grassroots football team, stated that the extensions were necessary to accommodate his growing family and that the design was similar to other properties on the street. Neighbours had been consulted and were supportive of the proposals. The officer's recommendation for approval was moved by Councillor Bill Parks and seconded by Councillor Mike Phillips.