Major development at M4 junction in Wiltshire has concerns
A proposal to build multiple industrial and logistics buildings northeast of junction 17 of the M4 at Chippenham was submitted in March 2025 and remains undetermined by Wiltshire Council. A decision deadline of January 30 was missed earlier this year and a new date of May 15 has now been set by the council, by which time it expects to rule on the significant application. These delays come after National Highways requested that Wiltshire Council does not approve the development for at least six months, from October 2025, while further investigations are carried out.
The plans have been controversial and there is significant local opposition to developing more land near the busy motorway junction, with the large Indurent Park already located on the other side of the motorway. Many, including multiple parish councils in the area, are concerned that the development will exacerbate existing traffic issues on the M4 roundabout, the A350 and A429, and the smaller roads surrounding the junction. 
During an initial consultation, a Kington St Michael Parish Council spokesperson said: "From a local perspective all that can be seen is more traffic, more congestion, more inconvenience for existing users, and more damage to existing local lanes." Applicant Stoford Alderley has previously insisted that measures would be taken to mitigate any traffic issues. Others who live near the site are concerned about more light pollution following the development of Indurent Park.
Anthony Langley said: "This is already not pleasant, I can't even comprehend how excessive the light pollution will be for ourselves especially, and surrounding properties if this new site is granted permission. "I really do hope the council can see and understand and appreciate the impact this will have physically and mentally if approved." Suggested reading
A letter submitted by the applicant last year said a transport assessment showed that improvements to the road network would be involved in the plans, which have received support from the council's economic development team. It said: "The transport assessment for the proposed development concludes that the proposed development will adequately address anticipated traffic impacts. "The identified improvements, including signal-controlled junctions, lane widening, and enhanced pedestrian and vehicle facilities, ensure satisfactory operation of the local and strategic road network.
"The updated information provided with this submission should enable the council to undertake targeted re-consultation where required and progress the determination of this planning application."