PROPOSALS to convert unused land into retail space in North Swindon has been met with a number of objections.

In March, developers Icon Two Ltd submitted a proposal to build ten shopping units off Thamesdown Drive at the Swindon Gateway, near Aldi, Harvester and David Lloyd.

Described as a ‘low retail scheme’, they say it will complement existing development but a number of concerns have been raised about the impact it will have on the town centre.

A formal objection has been submitted by the UK Commercial Property Trust, which owns the Parade and Regent Circus.

It questions the quality of the application and argues trade in the town centre will be hit by the addition of new shops, the tenants of which are not yet known.

A report from the company says: “UKCPT is particularly concerned over the on-going health of Swindon town centre and its vulnerability to out-of-centre retail development and therefore has closely examined the contents of this planning application, including its supporting information and assessments.

“As a consequence of this review, UKCPT has significant concerns over the quality and robustness of the applicant’s ‘Planning and Retail Statement’.

“It also takes the view that the proposed development is likely to have a significant adverse impact upon the health of, and investment within, Swindon town centre.”

Some residents living in North Swindon have also spoken out against the visual impact of the proposal and the impact it will have on the land.

Among them is Ben Forsey of Haydon Wick, who said: “My main objection is around the appalling quality of proposed 'architecture' (and I use the term very loosely).

“The metal cladding, relatively small doorways and complete lack of any active frontages mean the units look like warehouses at worst and trade counters at best.

“Coming into the town from the A419, any visitor to the town will be welcomed by the backs of these buildings, which have absolutely no aesthetic appeal or architectural merit.”

However, the developers have said it will bring to life a section of land which is not currently in use.

Prior to the application being submitted, a spokesman said: “New retail facilities for local residents will transform this gateway location, complementing the existing leisure, restaurant and retail uses in the surrounding area.

“The proposal seeks to deliver new retail facilities for local residents, provided in the form of a well-designed gateway development into Swindon.”