PERMISSION to grant a change of use to a now derelict former shop just off the high street in Malmesbury represents the first breach of the Neighbourhood Plan, it has been claimed.

The proposals to convert the dilapidated property at 6 Oxford Street into residential use were passed by a committee at a northern area board meeting last week, despite opposition from a number of councillors and residents.

Simon Killane of Wiltshire Council called in the original proposal and attended the public meeting to discuss the plans.

He says the decision to grant a change of use has undermined the Malmesbury Neighbourhood Plan and will set a dangerous precedent as the property was within the plan’s designated retail zone.

“This is the first time that the plan has been undermined and I feel it’s a destruction to the heart of our business environment,” he said.

“They’ve undermined the democratic wishes of members of this town. It’s a real tragedy for Malmesbury.

“The retention of this particular retail space with its historic frontage is important from both heritage and economic viewpoints.

“I will always fight to retain the buildings that we need to have a viable and thriving town centre and I will speak out when I see short-term profiteering or poorly evidenced arguments being used at the expense of the community-led plan that we agreed by referendum.

“I asserted that it was patently clear that the intent of our neighbourhood plan was to protect all retail premises from inappropriate attempts to convert our town centre shops to residential use.

“There were several examples where Wiltshire Council rejected similar applications in Malmesbury.”

Stewart Shape owner of The Wild Food Co, Lula and Sailor and The Birdcage Pizzeria in Malmesbury, opposed the plans originally and says the decision will affect business in the town.

“It’s short-sighted,” he said. “Loads of people are saying it hasn’t been touched for years, but soon as it came on the market it was snapped up for a ridiculously low price.

“It affects business when you have fewer business outlets.

“Where are we going to stop?”

Roger Budgen, Malmesbury Town Council member and chairman of the planning and environment committee, supported the plans for conversion.

“It was a fairly difficult decision but we felt there was more benefit than harm,” he said.

“I think every case has to be taken on its merits and there were sound planning reasons.

“The two very small retail opportunities have historically not been very successful.

“We’re delighted that a grade two star listed building is returning to good use.

“It provides two dwellings in centre of town. All round it’s a good deal for town.”