CONTROVERSIAL plans to demolish a former petrol station and build 45 homes in a Cotswold town are set to be debated this week.

Newland Homes Limited wants permission to redevelop the land at London Road in Tetbury.

Their plans, which are due to be considered by Cotswold District Council, include demolishing the former Tesco petrol filling station and other existing buildings at Northfield Garage and building a new estate on the site.

But more than 30 people have objected to the proposals along with Tetbury Town Council over concerns the site is too small for the number of homes.

Sarah Bolt, an objector, said: “Tetbury has not got the infrastructure to support the current residents we have net alone to allow more houses.

“The roads are already under stress from traffic, the doctors surgery and dentist are not able to see patients in a decent time and the dentists books are currently closed.

“Children cannot cross roads safely without decent foot paths. 

"There also does not appear to be enough parking spaces per house, two to four bedroom houses need at least two to three spaces to prevent overcrowding on side roads making it unsafe for children.

“This land should be used for leisure facilities for our town, not more houses overpopulating a beautiful place.”

Another resident, Sophie Baldwin said the town has become “saturated with new houses” and has met its housing quota.

“It beggars belief that another 45 houses are even being considered to be crammed in on this plot.”

Tetbury Town Council said the plans include too many units on a small parcel of land and the site is out of place on the entrance into the town.

“There still remains a significant problem about the traffic pulling out from this estate, Northfield Road, Tesco and Conygar all onto London Road.”

Consultants working the scheme say they have been carefully designed to reflect the character of the area and sit comfortably within the urban setting.

They also say the proposals will not impact the Cotswold area of outstanding natural beauty.

“The houses range from one to four bedrooms and have been carefully designed to complement the existing housing and surrounding area.

“The new street frontage will provide a more attractive aspect to London Road than the current dilapidated petrol filling station.”

Planning officers have recommended approving the scheme subject to conditions.

Councillors will have their say on the proposals at the planning committee meeting on November 9.